Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on Saturday, challenged recent assurances by opposition figures regarding the credibility of the forthcoming governorship election, warning voters to remain vigilant against any attempt to manipulate the August 15 poll.
He stated this in his response to remarks attributed to the candidate of the All Progressives Congress, Bola Oyebamiji, and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, who had publicly pledged support for a free and fair electoral process in the state.
Adeleke, in a statement in Osogbo by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, described the declarations from the APC leaders as an attempt to distance themselves from earlier comments and social media messages allegedly suggesting that federal influence could be used to determine the outcome of the election.
According to the statement, “The recent statements by the opposition figures should not reduce the alertness of residents and voters across the state as preparations continue for the governorship contest scheduled for August.
“The sudden shift in tone by the APC candidate and his supporters raises questions about what has changed.
“Members of the public should treat such assurances cautiously given previous statements that suggested a determination to secure victory regardless of the electorate’s decision.”
Adeleke added that those involved in the earlier remarks should apologise to the people of Osun for what he described as threats to override the democratic choice of voters during the forthcoming election.
The Governor also alleged that some campaign operatives linked to the opposition had circulated posts warning of the use of federal power to influence the poll.
He noted that such comments had generated concern among residents and political stakeholders.
“What now changed that the APC candidate suddenly embraced the language of free and fair elections? Why was the minister echoing the same line after earlier signals suggesting otherwise?”, he said.
Adeleke stated that the public should remain watchful, arguing that attempts to retract previous comments did not erase concerns about possible interference in the electoral process.
He called on the opposition to demonstrate commitment to democratic principles by distancing itself from any actions that could undermine the credibility of the vote.
The governor also urged federal institutions and security agencies to maintain neutrality during the electoral process to ensure that all political parties operate under the same conditions across the state.
Commending civic groups and local political organisers who have begun mobilising voters, Governor Adeleke said residents were already taking steps to safeguard the integrity of the election at ward and community levels.
“Myself, my team and my party are committed to mobilisation for a free and fair contest in which the votes of the people must count at all costs. The election should remain peaceful and free from intimidation or electoral malpractice,” he said.
