Tension is mounting in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, following another overnight act of vandalism targeting campaign billboards and promotional materials linked to supporters of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
The latest incident, which reportedly occurred in different parts of Osogbo in the early hours of today, has sparked outrage among residents, political supporters, and advertisers who described the repeated destruction of billboards as a threat to political freedom and peaceful participation ahead of the 2026 governorship election.
Several supporters of the governor lamented that political advertisements and campaign structures mounted across strategic locations in the city were either torn, damaged, or completely removed by suspected thugs overnight.
The repeated attacks have raised fresh questions about security enforcement and the ability of relevant authorities to protect political materials and maintain peace within the state capital.
Some residents and political observers expressed concern that despite multiple reports of similar incidents in recent months, there has been little visible action from security agencies to identify or prosecute those responsible.
The development has led to growing public criticism, with many questioning whether security operatives are unwilling to act or have allegedly been instructed to remain passive while acts of political intimidation continue.
Supporters of Governor Adeleke who spoke anonymously said many loyalists and business owners are now afraid to invest in outdoor advertising and campaign publicity without assurances that their billboards and banners will be protected from destruction.
According to some affected individuals, the repeated vandalism has created fear and uncertainty among political supporters and advertisers across Osogbo and other parts of the state.
“This keeps happening repeatedly, and nobody seems to be held accountable. People are beginning to fear putting up billboards because they may be destroyed overnight,” one resident said.
Others warned that if urgent measures are not taken, the situation could escalate political tension and discourage peaceful democratic engagement ahead of the governorship election.
Concerned residents have called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to investigate the latest incident, strengthen surveillance around strategic areas, and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
Political stakeholders have also appealed to supporters of all political parties to embrace peaceful conduct and avoid actions capable of threatening the stability of Osun State.
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had yet to issue an official statement regarding the latest acts of billboard vandalism in Osogbo.
