Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has raised an alarm over an alleged plot by opposition elements to incite violence and disrupt the upcoming local government election scheduled for February 22, 2025.
Despite the concerns, the governor assured residents of his administration’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful and credible electoral process.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke commended the peaceful conduct of campaigns by various political parties and urged candidates to focus on engaging the electorate with their agendas rather than resorting to violence or intimidation.
“As a government, we are committed to free and fair elections. We have followed the preparatory activities of the state electoral commission and we assure the public that we respect the independence of the commission to conduct credible elections,” Adeleke stated.
The governor highlighted Osun State’s high literacy rate, emphasizing that residents are well-informed and cannot be easily misled. “We are highly educated in Osun state. Our literacy level is at an all-time high. This is not a state where residents can be lied to. They read and digest court rulings and political subjects without being hoodwinked. I urge our people to get prepared for February 22. It is an opportunity to vote for your preferred council chairmen and councilors,” he said.
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Adeleke also disclosed that his administration had received credible intelligence about plans by opposition groups to instigate crisis during the election. He issued a stern warning to those involved, stressing the grave consequences of such actions.
“We have credible reports of plots by elements within the opposition to foment crisis in Osun state. I warn those plotting such evil to desist because of its grave consequences. As the Chief Security Officer of this state, I have directed security agencies to deal decisively with any promoter of violence within the context of the rule of law. We will not allow this state to be plunged into a baseless conflict,” Adeleke declared.
The governor reiterated his commitment to maintaining peace and security, urging residents to participate in the election process peacefully. “Democracy is about ballot papers, not guns and cutlass. Go to the poll on the 22nd. Make your preference known in peaceful manners,” he concluded.
Adeleke’s statement underscores his administration’s determination to ensure a violence-free election and uphold the integrity of the democratic process in Osun State. Residents and stakeholders are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to security agencies.
