Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has called on residents of the state to ignore alleged threats and intimidation ahead of the August 15 governorship election and come out in large numbers to vote.
Speaking during a church service in Osogbo on Sunday, Adeleke accused opposition figures in the state of resorting to violence after losing public support.
He expressed confidence in securing a second term, citing his administration’s achievements in workers’ welfare, healthcare, education, infrastructure and agriculture.
The governor assured residents that adequate measures were being taken to guarantee their safety during the election and urged them to vote according to their conscience.
Meanwhile, the Imole Campaign Council raised concerns over what it described as a tense political atmosphere in the state ahead of the poll.
The council alleged that dozens of Accord Party leaders and other political figures had been targeted for arrest in the run-up to the election and called on security agencies to ensure fairness and professionalism.
The council also appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, and other security chiefs to safeguard the democratic process and prevent any form of political intimidation.
Accord Party presidential candidate, Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, urged party members in Osun to remain loyal and work for the party’s success despite recent internal disagreements.
He criticised what he described as acts of disloyalty but insisted that party supporters should stay focused on the election.
Also, the Osun State chapter of the African Action Congress (AAC) faulted the decision of some governorship candidates to boycott a televised debate, arguing that public debates are essential for accountability and democratic engagement.
On his part, APC chieftain, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, urged the police to remain neutral and ensure a peaceful, credible and violence-free election, stressing that voters must be adequately protected before, during and after the poll.