Ademola Adeleke, the governor of Osun State, has questioned recent assurances by opposition figures about the credibility of the forthcoming governorship election, urging voters to remain vigilant against any attempt to manipulate the August 15 poll.
The governor was reacting to remarks linked 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.
In a statement released in Osogbo on Saturday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke described the comments from the APC leaders as an effort to distance themselves from earlier statements and social media posts that allegedly implied federal influence could determine the outcome of the election.
According to the governor, “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.”
He added that those connected with the earlier remarks should apologise to the people of Osun for what he described as threats to override the democratic choice of voters in the upcoming election.
The governor also alleged that some campaign operatives linked to the opposition had circulated posts warning that federal power might be used to influence the poll.
He noted that the comments had raised concerns 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 further stated that the public must stay alert, arguing that attempts to retract previous statements do not erase worries about possible interference in the electoral process.
He called on the opposition to prove its commitment to democratic principles by distancing itself from any action that could undermine the credibility of the vote.
The governor also urged federal institutions and security agencies to remain neutral throughout the electoral process so that all political parties can compete on equal terms across the state.
Commending civic groups and local political organisers already mobilising voters, Adeleke said residents have begun taking steps to protect 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.
