Nigeria: Further protests possible over the coming days across Osun State over governorship election results /update 1

Event

As of Feb. 3, supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) may continue to protest across Osun State in the coming days over the governorship election results. The Osun State Election Petition Tribunal nullified the election results Jan. 27 due to evidence of over-voting and declared Adegboyega Oyetola from the All Progressive Congress (APC) as governor. While the initial winner, the PDP's Ademola Adeleke, has called for calm and announced the PDP would contest the ruling, protests have been reported across several cities, including Osogbo, Ilesa, Ikirun, and Ede, in the days following the aftermath of the verdict. There have also been reports of injuries amid clashes between rival supporters and damages against APC offices. The Supreme Court has dismissed an appeal made by the PDP Feb. 2, triggering localized relatively peaceful protests across Osun.

An increased security presence and localized disruptions are likely in the vicinity of all gatherings; protesters may obstruct road traffic. Demonstrations may turn violent, and clashes between PDP and APC supporters, as well as between protesters and police, are possible.

Advice

Avoid all protests and plan for possible transport disruptions across Osun. If violence occurs, immediately leave the area and seek shelter in a secure, nongovernmental building. Heed the instructions of security personnel.