By Editor
The calm after the recent election in Osun State was shattered over the weekend when a disagreement between two women spilled into the open and reportedly ended in a physical confrontation in front of a busy market crowd.
What began as a heated exchange about the outcome of the polls quickly drew the attention of traders, motorcyclists, and passersby near the junction in Osogbo. Witnesses said the argument started with raised voices and pointed fingers, then escalated within minutes.
The two women, described by locals as longtime residents of the area, were said to support different political parties. One was seen wearing the colors of the party declared winner, while the other had campaigned openly for the opposition during the election season.
Video clips that circulated on social media showed the pair pulling at each other’s wrappers and shouting over each other. People in the background could be heard pleading for them to stop, while others recorded on their phones. The footage attracted thousands of views before midday.
Traders quickly closed their tables and moved goods aside as the scuffle moved from the roadside into the open space beside the market stalls. A few young men eventually stepped in to separate them, but not before both women had visible scratches and torn clothing.
Police officers from the nearby divisional headquarters arrived about ten minutes later. They took statements from both parties and from several witnesses who had gathered. The officers then led the women away in separate vehicles to prevent further escalation.
Residents said the tension was not just about the election itself. In the weeks leading up to voting, door-to-door campaigns and community meetings had grown unusually intense in that part of Osun. Families and neighbors who previously greeted each other warmly had started avoiding political topics altogether.
A community leader who spoke at the scene urged calm. He reminded the crowd that elections come and go, but the community remains. He called on party supporters to channel their energy into holding elected officials accountable instead of turning on one another.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed in a brief statement that no serious injuries were recorded and that both women were later released after signing an undertaking to maintain peace. The statement also warned against taking the law into one’s own hands, regardless of political affiliation.
Local civil society groups have since visited the market to speak with traders and youth leaders. They are organizing a town-hall meeting this week focused on post-election healing and dialogue. Organizers say the goal is to address how quickly political disagreement can turn personal.
On social media, reactions have been mixed. Some commenters condemned the fight and called it an embarrassment to women in politics. Others used it to argue that politicians must do more to manage expectations among supporters after results are announced.
For now, the market has returned to normal trading, but the incident remains a talking point across Osun. It serves as a reminder of how closely tied politics and daily life have become, and how fragile that line can be when emotions run high.
About The Author
