Naija Times publisher urges voters to reject violence and vote peacefully in the governorship poll

Ehi Braimah, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Naija Times, has issued a stark warning over the security situation in Osun State ahead of Saturday’s governorship election, describing the atmosphere as “war” while urging politicians and voters to reject violence.

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Speaking about the growing tension surrounding the August 15 poll, Braimah said political parties across the divide should bear responsibility for creating a peaceful environment rather than allowing ordinary Nigerians to pay the price for political contests.

“This is war,” Braimah said in his reaction to the security situation in the state.

He questioned why citizens should risk their lives for an election involving only one state.

“Politicians didn’t care about us. All the parties are guilty. Why should people die all because of one election, in one state, Osun State? Let us have a peaceful election,” he said.

Braimah’s remarks came as political tensions and concerns about security intensified ahead of the governorship contest, with security agencies under pressure to protect voters and ensure that political competition does not spill into violence.

The Naija Times publisher also appealed directly to residents of Osun to participate in the democratic process without allowing inducements to determine their choices.

He urged voters to come out and exercise their franchise, while warning them against exchanging their votes for short-term material benefits.

“Come out and vote. Do not settle for N15,000 and rice and garri,” Braimah said.

His appeal also extended to those offering financial inducements in exchange for political support.

Braimah criticised people who distribute money while making extreme declarations about their political allegiance, warning that political loyalty should not become a reason for violence or loss of life.

“And for those giving money and still swearing that they will die, nothing will happen,” he said.

The remarks come against a tense political backdrop in Osun, where competing parties and candidates have intensified their final mobilisation ahead of the election.

The Independent National Electoral Commission has said it is prepared for the poll, while security agencies have been tasked with maintaining order and protecting voters at polling units.

Braimah’s intervention places the emphasis on the human cost of electoral violence, arguing that political disagreements should not turn an election into a battle in which ordinary citizens become casualties.

With the poll approaching, the central message from the media executive is that voters should exercise their democratic rights peacefully and refuse to allow political interests to dictate the safety of communities.

The warning is particularly significant in an election environment where allegations of threats, intimidation and political violence can quickly heighten public anxiety.