Osun poll: Adeleke urges Tinubu to ensure free, fair election, warns against violence

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that the August 15 governorship election in the state is conducted freely and fairly, warning that any attempt to manipulate the process could trigger political unrest.

Speaking on Monday at Orita-Sabo in Olorunda Local Government Area during a meeting with supporters, Adeleke said Osun would not tolerate electoral malpractice and urged the President to rein in members of the ruling party accused of causing tension in the state.

The governor also expressed concern over what he described as police harassment of opposition members, saying the Federal Government must protect all citizens and uphold democratic principles.

Adeleke referenced the political crisis that followed the disputed 1983 governorship election in Ondo State involving the late Michael Ajasin, cautioning that Nigeria should avoid a repeat of such events.

“Mr President, all we ask for is a free and fair election. Anyone attempting to undermine the people’s mandate should remember the lessons of 1983,” he said.

He further appealed to Tinubu to direct security agencies and party leaders to maintain peace and respect the electoral process, noting that the President had a long history of supporting democratic struggles.

The governor added that, despite receiving political support from other groups ahead of the 2027 presidential election, the President should not allow democracy to be endangered in Osun.

Earlier, Director-General of the Imole Campaign Council, Senator Lere Oyewumi, urged residents to come out in large numbers to vote for Adeleke, saying the governor’s performance in office justified another term.

Oyewumi also encouraged voters to protect their votes and ensure that the election reflects the will of the people.