In the lead-up to the upcoming Osun State governorship election scheduled for August 15, political tensions have escalated significantly, with multiple candidates and their supporters engaging in a series of contentious claims and counterclaims. At the center of these developments is Oriyomi Hamzat, a prominent broadcaster and Accord Party gubernatorial candidate in Oyo State, who has denied allegations that he supports the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji. This denial comes amid a viral video that purportedly showed Hamzat endorsing Oyebamiji's candidacy, prompting widespread confusion among voters and political observers.
Hamzat addressed the controversy in a detailed statement shared on his social media platform. He clarified that the video in question was recorded on June 21, 2025, well before he officially joined the Accord Party and prior to Oyebamiji securing the APC governorship nomination. During the event, which marked the inauguration of Hamzat's fan club in Ikire, Apomu, and Ikoyi, representatives of Oyebamiji were present and contributed financially to the initiative. However, Hamzat emphasized that Oyebamiji had not yet obtained the APC ticket at that time, and his comments during the event were taken out of context.
The broadcaster stressed that the video was being manipulated to create a misleading narrative about his current political stance. He argued that using outdated footage to imply a present-day alliance between himself and Oyebamiji is both deceptive and disrespectful to the electorate. Hamzat reiterated his unwavering support for Governor Ademola Adeleke, highlighting the importance of truthful political discourse and the need for the public to discern fact from fabrication.
Amidst these political maneuverings, concerns about escalating political violence in Osun State have prompted calls for immediate action from security agencies. The World Institute for Peace, represented by its Executive Director, Lamina Omotoyosi, has raised alarms regarding the increasing frequency of politically motivated violence in the region. Omotoyosi highlighted that several individuals have been killed in recent months under circumstances linked to political rivalries, warning that the situation could spiral into a state of emergency if left unaddressed.
Omotoyosi submitted petitions to key security officials, including the Inspector General of Police and the Commandant General of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, urging them to take decisive measures against political thuggery. He pointed out that similar issues have been observed in other parts of the country, such as Borno, Adamawa, and Kebbi states, indicating a broader trend of unrest fueled by political conflict. The executive director emphasized the necessity of investigating all unresolved violent incidents connected to political activities and ensuring that perpetrators face legal consequences.
His organization has previously raised concerns about political violence, notably in 2023, when they issued warnings to former President Muhammadu Buhari and other security leaders about the potential repercussions of allowing such activities to persist. Omotoyosi expressed deep concern over the recurrence of such tragic events in Osun, noting that over 30 lives were lost due to political violence in 2022, a figure that appears to be repeating itself as the election approaches.
As the political landscape becomes increasingly volatile, Oyebamiji, the APC governorship candidate, has responded to accusations that his campaign is linked to criminal activities. Addressing the media following a religious observance, Oyebamiji categorically denied any association with criminal behavior, asserting that his campaign is rooted in principles of peace, decency, and issue-based engagement. He urged the public to remain vigilant against efforts to discredit his campaign and emphasized his commitment to lawful conduct throughout his political journey.
Oyebamiji acknowledged the challenges posed by political adversaries seeking to undermine his credibility but remained resolute in his mission to deliver responsible governance to Osun. He expressed gratitude for the support received from the community and called upon residents to continue praying for the success of his campaign. With a focus on fostering unity and ensuring the welfare of all citizens, Oyebamiji aims to establish an environment characterized by peace, security, prosperity, and justice for everyone in Osun State.
As the election date looms closer, the dynamics within Osun State reflect a complex interplay of political strategies, public sentiment, and security concerns. The involvement of various stakeholders, including political candidates, advocacy groups, and security agencies, underscores the multifaceted nature of the electoral process. Each party seeks to navigate the challenges presented by the current climate, striving to ensure that the upcoming election proceeds smoothly and transparently. The outcome of these efforts will ultimately determine the trajectory of Osun State's future governance and stability.
4 reports
The PunchIndependentCenterFactual 90Objective 855 days agoThe World Institute for Peace (WIP) has warned of escalating political violence in Osun State and other regions of Nigeria, expressing fears that the situation could escalate into a state of emergency if security agencies do not intervene before the upcoming governorship election. Lamina Omotoyosi, the Executive Director of WIP, submitted petitions to top Nigerian security officials, highlighting a surge in politically motivated murders linked to political rivalries. He connected the crisis in Osun to broader patterns of politician-sponsored violence in states like Borno, Adamawa, and Kebbi, emphasizing that such violence threatens electoral stability. Omotoyosi noted that similar warnings were made in 2023, but the issue appears to be resurfacing, with over 30 deaths recorded in 2022 alone. He warned that ongoing violence risks triggering cycles of retaliation, undermining the possibility of a peaceful and fair election.
Bias read (Center): While the article discusses a serious and potentially politicized issue—violence tied to political competition—it does not exhibit overt ideological leaning. It presents the concerns of a non-partisan organization (World Institute for Peace) and reports on the actions of multiple security officials.
Why these scores (Factual 90 · Objective 85): Factuality is strong with clear reporting on the Institute's warnings and specific details about the political violence in Osun. Objectivity remains high as the article presents the concerns without overt bias or emotional language.
The PunchIndependentCenterFactual 85Objective 754 days ago Osun poll: Hamzat denies backing APC candidate, reaffirms support for AdelekeOriyomi Hamzat, a prominent broadcaster and gubernatorial candidate for the Accord Party in Oyo State, has denied supporting the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, in the upcoming August 15 Osun State governorship election. Hamzat clarified that a viral video suggesting he backed Oyebamiji was misleading, noting it was recorded on June 21, 2025, before he joined the Accord Party and before Oyebamiji became the APC's gubernatorial candidate. He explained that Oyebamiji's representatives attended his fan club inauguration and donated to the event, but this did not indicate political endorsement. Hamzat emphasized that his comments during the event were taken out of context and that the video was used to mislead voters. He reaffirmed his support for Governor Ademola Adeleke's re-election bid.
Bias read (Center): While the article discusses a politically charged issue involving candidates and voter perception, the framing remains balanced. Hamzat directly addresses the misinformation claim without overtly attacking or praising any side. The article presents both the allegations and Hamzat's rebuttal without傾
Why these scores (Factual 85 · Objective 75): Factuality is high as the article accurately reports Hamzat's denial of supporting APC candidate Oyebamiji and provides specific dates and context. Objectivity is slightly lower due to potential bias in emphasizing Hamzat's position and downplaying the viral video's impact.
Vanguard NigeriaIndependentCenterFactual 80Objective 706 days agoAsiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, the gubernatorial candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Nigeria, has denied allegations that his campaign is linked to criminal activity. Speaking after attending a religious event, Oyebamiji accused political opponents of using vehicles branded with his campaign materials to commit crimes and damage his reputation. He emphasized that his campaign operates with integrity and adherence to the rule of law, and urged citizens to ignore false claims. Oyebamiji called for vigilance against deceptive tactics and reaffirmed his commitment to providing responsible governance and peaceful leadership for Osun State.
Bias read (Center): While the article discusses a politically charged topic related to electoral campaigns and accusations of misconduct, the framing remains balanced. The article presents Oyebamiji’s denial of wrongdoing without overtly endorsing or criticizing his position. It includes direct quotes from the campaign
Why these scores (Factual 80 · Objective 70): Factuality is moderate as the article reports Oyebamiji's allegations but lacks full context on the extent of the claimed criminal activity. Objectivity is lower due to the charged language and focus on discrediting opponents rather than presenting balanced perspectives.
The PunchIndependentCenter6 hr. ago Osun monarchs back lawyer’s Reps bidThe Ijesa North Traditional Rulers’ Council in Osun State has endorsed Pelumi Olajengbesi, a lawyer and campaign spokesperson, for the 2027 House of Representatives election. The endorsement occurred during a town hall meeting where traditional rulers and community leaders expressed confidence in Olajengbesi's ability to represent the Oriade/Obokun Federal Constituency. Olajengbesi, who previously ran in 2019, aims to unseat incumbent lawmaker Wole Oke of the All Progressives Congress. He emphasized the need for youth representation and new ideas, pledging to drive development if elected.
Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced account of the endorsement without overtly favoring any political side. It reports on the traditional rulers' support for Olajengbesi while providing context about his background, previous candidacy, and political platform. There is no clear ideological slant or one-s
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