Amnesty International Raises Concerns Over Osun Election Tensions and Apathy
Amnesty International Nigeria's Country Director, Isa Sanusi, predicts low voter turnout for the August 2026 Osun State governorship election due to political violence and threats. Citing specific incidents and broader voter apathy, Sanusi highlights fears for safety among eligible voters. He urges political actors to uphold democratic principles and accept election outcomes peacefully.
Isa Sanusi, the Country Director of Amnesty International Nigeria, has projected a low voter turnout for the upcoming Osun State governorship election, scheduled for August 15, 2026. This prediction stems from significant concerns over political violence and escalating threats in the lead-up to the polls. Speaking on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily, Sanusi highlighted that many eligible voters might choose to abstain from participating due to genuine fears for their personal safety, particularly in light of recent inflammatory political statements.
Sanusi specifically cited comments attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi, who represents the Osun East Senatorial District. Fadahunsi was reportedly seen in a video issuing threats to members of the Accord Party ahead of the election. According to Sanusi, such public statements, combined with a documented total of 73 incidents of violence recorded between May and June, could substantially deter voters from exercising their civic duty. He emphasized that the potential voter apathy is not due to an unwillingness to vote, but rather a profound concern for personal survival. Voters, he noted, prioritize their safety, not wanting to risk their lives for supporting a particular political party.
Furthermore, Sanusi expressed broader concerns about persistent voter apathy across Nigeria, pointing to the notably low turnout observed in previous national elections, including the last presidential election. He described the figures for the presidential election as