Adeleke Urges Osun Voters to Reject Intimidation as Parties Raise Election Security Concerns

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has urged residents to disregard alleged threats and intimidation ahead of the August 15 governorship election, calling on eligible voters to turn out in large numbers and exercise their civic rights.

Speaking during a church service in Osogbo on Sunday, Adeleke accused opposition figures of resorting to violence after losing public support. He expressed confidence in securing a second term, citing his administration’s record in workers’ welfare, healthcare, education, infrastructure and agriculture.

The governor also assured residents that adequate security measures were being put in place to ensure a peaceful electoral process, urging voters to cast their ballots according to their conscience without fear.

Meanwhile, the Imole Campaign Council raised concerns over what it described as a growing atmosphere of tension ahead of the poll. The council alleged that several Accord Party leaders and other political figures had been targeted for arrest in the lead-up to the election.

It called on security agencies to act professionally and impartially, appealing to the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, and other security chiefs to safeguard the democratic process and prevent any form of political intimidation.

In a related development, Accord Party presidential candidate Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim urged party members in Osun State to remain united and committed to the party’s success despite recent internal disagreements. While criticising what he described as acts of disloyalty, he encouraged supporters to stay focused on the forthcoming election.

Also weighing in, the Osun State chapter of the African Action Congress (AAC) criticised the decision of some governorship candidates to boycott a televised debate, arguing that public debates remain vital for promoting accountability and strengthening democratic engagement.

Similarly, APC chieftain Olatunbosun Oyintiloye called on the police to maintain neutrality and ensure a peaceful, credible and violence-free governorship election, stressing the need to protect voters before, during and after the poll.