DON'T SET OSUN ABLAZE: RESPECT THE PEOPLE'S MANDATE, OSUN ELECTION CANNOT BE RIGGED

By Comrade Abdul-Jeleel Samakin

The people of Osun State are resolute, enlightened, and politically conscious. They understand the value of their votes and are fully aware of the democratic responsibility of choosing leaders with integrity, competence, and a genuine commitment to public service. No amount of intimidation or political manipulation can diminish that resolve.

This is not the first election in Nigeria, and it certainly will not be the last. Those entrusted with the responsibility of conducting and securing this election must remember that reputations built over decades can be destroyed by a single act of compromise. Public institutions derive their legitimacy from the trust of the people, and that trust must not be sacrificed for partisan interests.

The political tension witnessed across Osun State in recent months did not arise by accident. It is the product of calculated actions by the All Progressives Congress (APC), whose desperation has unnecessarily heated the political atmosphere. The people know those responsible for disturbing the peace, and history will hold every actor accountable for his or her role.

Security agencies and officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must remember that they occupy public offices to serve the Nigerian people—not the interests of any political party or powerful individuals. Their constitutional duty is to guarantee a free, fair, credible, and transparent election. Any conduct that undermines public confidence in the electoral process will only deepen distrust and threaten the stability of our democracy.

The people of Osun State will firmly reject every form of intimidation, harassment, or undue influence, whether it comes from political actors, security agencies, or any other quarters. Democracy thrives when citizens are allowed to exercise their constitutional rights freely, without fear or coercion.

INEC has established clear electoral guidelines and procedures, and every stakeholder must operate strictly within those rules. Any attempt to circumvent or manipulate the electoral process will not only violate the law but also create unnecessary tension capable of undermining public peace and confidence in the election.

Anyone who truly wishes to understand the mood of the state should visit our communities, markets, towns, and villages across the 30 local government areas. The message from the grassroots is unmistakable: the people are prepared to participate peacefully, protect the sanctity of their votes, and insist that every lawful vote counts. They reject intimidation in all its forms and demand that their democratic choice be respected.

It is difficult to manipulate an election where the overwhelming majority of voters have freely made up their minds. The era when the will of the people could be easily overturned has passed. Osun voters are informed, vigilant, and determined to ensure that the outcome of this election genuinely reflects the choice expressed at the ballot box.

To every observer, political party, security operative, and stakeholder participating in the forthcoming governorship election, the message is simple: respect the will of the people. Osun is a democratic state where citizens expect their votes—not intimidation, coercion, or manipulation—to determine who governs them for the next four years.

Reports of intimidation and harassment are already in the public and the public should remain vigilant by documenting and lawfully reporting every incident through the appropriate channels. The credibility of this election depends on transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to the rule of law.

The peace of Osun State is priceless. It must not be endangered by those who place political ambition above democratic values. Let the people decide. Let every vote count. Let democracy prevail.

05/08/2026