…Group warns against militarisation, urges INEC to ensure credible election
By Dayo Johnson, Osogbo
OSOGBO — The National Association of Seadogs, also known as Pyrates Confraternity, has urged President Bola Tinubu to resist any attempt to deploy federal power to influence Saturday’s Osun State governorship election in favour of the All Progressives Congress, APC.
The group also called on the President to ensure a level playing field for all candidates participating in the election.
In a statement titled, “The Votes Must Count in Osun Governorship Election,” and signed by the NAS Capoon, Dr Charles Meribole, the group urged Tinubu, as President and Commander-in-Chief, to act as a statesman by ensuring that security agencies remain neutral and protect voters.
Meribole condemned reported cases of pre-election violence in the state, citing figures attributed to Amnesty International as well as clashes involving supporters of the Accord Party and APC.
He warned that democracy could not thrive under what he described as “weaponised institutions and voter inducement.”
“Osun State has seen enough bloodshed. The cycle of election-related violence must end. The people deserve a free and fair process, and their votes must count,” the statement said.
The Seadogs urged Tinubu to direct security agencies to protect voters and dispel any perception that “Federal Might” could be deployed to suppress the will of the electorate.
“Security agencies owe their allegiance to Nigeria’s Constitution and not to any politician or political party.
“Every troublemaker, no matter how highly placed, must be held accountable,” the group said.
It also warned against the militarisation of the state during the election, saying excessive deployment of security personnel could intimidate voters and discourage them from exercising their franchise.
The group charged the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to use the Osun election to restore public confidence in the electoral process ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“INEC cannot afford to fumble. From logistical deployment to final declaration of results, every stage must be flawless.
“INEC must ensure every vote cast is accurately recorded and protected. Past irregularities like alteration of results and disappearance of result sheets must not repeat,” it said.
The Seadogs further urged political actors to prioritise peace over political ambition and hold their supporters accountable for their actions.
The group also appealed to voters to remain peaceful and law-abiding before, during and after the election.
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