Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has warned President Bola Tinubu against any attempt to manipulate the forthcoming governorship election in the state, insisting that residents will resist any form of electoral malpractice.
Speaking during a campaign rally, Adeleke said the people of Osun were prepared to turn out in large numbers to vote and would protect their ballots to ensure the outcome reflected the will of the electorate.
The governor, who described himself as the state’s Chief Security Officer, said he had a responsibility to safeguard lives and property, while expressing concern over the security situation in the state.
Adeleke accused the police of failing to act impartially and alleged that the force had been compromised. He urged security agencies to focus their efforts on tackling kidnapping and other criminal activities rather than interfering in the electoral process.
Addressing President Tinubu directly, the governor questioned why Osun State was allegedly facing political pressure despite his administration’s support for the President.
“President Tinubu, I’m passing this message to you. What do you want Osun State to do? We have endorsed you; what more do you want us to do? Why are people being killed?” he said.
He also appealed to the President to ensure that the governorship election is conducted freely and fairly.
“Osun will not accept any rigging. We will come out en masse to vote and defend our votes,” Adeleke declared.
The governor further warned against a repeat of the events surrounding the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, urging all stakeholders to uphold democratic principles.
Adeleke also alleged that funds belonging to the state were being withheld and called on the President to rein in the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, over what he described as rising political tension and violence in the state.
“The blood of innocent people will cry out,” the governor said.
The Osun State governorship election is scheduled to hold on August 15 amid heightened political activities and calls by stakeholders for a peaceful, credible and transparent electoral process.
