THE Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness has raised the alarm over rising pre-election violence in Osun State, alleging that about 40 persons have been killed ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

The Director-General of the Centre, Dr. Nwambu Gabriel, made the call on Thursday during a press conference in Osogbo.

Gabriel accused politicians of abandoning issue-based campaigns for personal attacks and inciting statements. He specifically called on the Inspector-General of Police and the DSS to arrest and prosecute Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi over allegations of incitement, importation of thugs, and the use of fake police operatives in Ijeshaland.

He also demanded increased security deployment across the six local government areas in Ijeshaland and an investigation into the activities of the Intelligence Response Team, IRT, in the state.

The Centre urged security agencies to “comb and flush out” armed thugs and impersonators to safeguard voters before, during and after the election.