Nigeria: Ruling party wins Osun gubernatorial election September 27 /update 2

Event

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced that Gboyega Oyetola of the ruling party, All Progressives Congress (APC), won the Osun state gubernatorial election after a run-off election was held in seven localities on Thursday, September 27. Officials from the opposition, People's Democratic Party (PDP), have rejected the results and vowed to challenge the decision in court. Related protests and demonstrations are possible in the coming hours and days. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions expected near all demonstration sites.

Context

The gubernatorial election was held for the second time in seven polling units of Osun state (southwest) on September 27 after results from the initial September 22 election were declared inconclusive due to alleged disruptions, prompting increased tensions.

Advice

Individuals in Osun state are advised to obey all instructions issued by the authorities, expect increased security measures, and anticipate traffic disruptions. Avoid any potential demonstrations or political events due to the risk of violence, which can erupt with little or no notice.

Generally speaking, the security environment in Nigeria is complex and is particularly concerning in the northeast and extreme south of the country due to the presence of armed groups, high crime rates, and the risk of kidnapping. Some Western governments consequently advise against travel to certain areas of the northeast (e.g. states of Borno, Yobe, Gombe, Bauchi, and Jigawa, as well as parts of Kano and Adamawa states) and the southern Niger Delta region (e.g. states of Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, and Rivers). Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel to these areas.