With just days to the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has intensified calls for a peaceful electoral process, urging President Bola Tinubu to ensure the poll is conducted without manipulation or violence. Speaking at a campaign rally, the governor said protecting the integrity of the election was essential to preserving public confidence in the democratic process.

Adeleke, who addressed supporters on Monday, said eligible voters across the state were prepared to participate in large numbers and expected their votes to count. He warned against any attempt to compromise the outcome of the election, stressing that the people of Osun were determined to safeguard what they considered their constitutional right to freely choose their leaders.

The governor, who described himself as the state’s Chief Security Officer, linked his appeal to concerns about the prevailing security atmosphere ahead of the election. He alleged that recent incidents of violence had heightened anxiety among residents and called for urgent intervention to prevent further escalation before, during and after the poll.

In his remarks, Adeleke also accused the police of failing to adequately address the security situation in the state. He claimed the force had been compromised and urged security agencies to concentrate their efforts on confronting criminal activities, including kidnapping, rather than actions capable of undermining public trust in the electoral process.

Addressing President Tinubu directly, the governor questioned why his administration was facing what he described as mounting political pressure despite previous expressions of support for the President’s future political ambition. He also alleged that Osun State had continued to face financial and security related challenges requiring immediate federal attention.

Adeleke further cautioned against any recurrence of events reminiscent of the annulled June 12, 1993 presidential election, saying the lessons from that period should reinforce the need for transparent and credible elections. He maintained that peaceful voting and respect for the electorate’s decision remained vital to democratic stability.

The governor’s latest comments come as political activities intensify ahead of the Osun governorship election. Electoral authorities and security agencies have repeatedly assured residents of their commitment to a peaceful, free and credible exercise, while stakeholders continue to urge political parties and their supporters to conduct their campaigns responsibly and within the law.