Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has called on residents to disregard alleged threats and intimidation ahead of the August 15 governorship election and participate freely in the voting process.
Speaking during a church service in Osogbo on Sunday, Adeleke alleged that the opposition had resorted to acts of violence after losing public support. He expressed confidence that his administration would secure a second term, pointing to achievements in workers’ welfare, healthcare, education, infrastructure, and agriculture.
The governor assured citizens that adequate security measures were being put in place to protect voters throughout the election and urged them to cast their ballots according to their conscience.
Meanwhile, the Imole Campaign Council expressed concern over what it described as a growing atmosphere of tension in the state. The council alleged that several Accord Party leaders and other political figures had been targeted for arrest ahead of the poll and appealed to security agencies to remain impartial.
The council also urged the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, and other security chiefs to protect the integrity of the electoral process and prevent political intimidation.
Similarly, Accord Party presidential candidate Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim called on party members in Osun to remain united despite internal disagreements, encouraging them to stay focused on delivering victory for the party.
The Osun chapter of the African Action Congress (AAC) also criticised the decision of some governorship candidates to boycott a televised debate, stressing that debates are vital for accountability and informed democratic participation.
In addition, APC chieftain Olatunbosun Oyintiloye urged the police to remain neutral and ensure a peaceful, transparent, and credible governorship election, while guaranteeing the safety of voters before, during, and after the exercise.
