Governor Ademola Adeleke has assured the public that the state government will not interfere in the upcoming local government elections on February 22nd, 2025.
He commended the peaceful campaigns by political parties and urged candidates to focus on presenting their agendas, warning against violence and manipulation.
“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.
He emphasized Osun’s high literacy rate, noting that the state’s residents are well-informed and discerning. “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.”
Adeleke also urged the public to prepare for the elections, reminding them that it is an opportunity to vote for their preferred local representatives. “It is an opportunity to vote for your preferred council chairmen and councilors,” he said.
The governor also addressed concerns over potential violence, revealing reports of plots to disrupt the elections. “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,” he warned, directing security agencies to take decisive action against any attempts at violence.
“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 rule of law,” Adeleke added. He emphasized the importance of peaceful voting, stating, “Democracy is about ballot papers, not guns and cutlass. Go to the poll on the 22nd. Make your preference known in peaceful manners.”
Adeleke concluded with a reminder of Osun’s commitment to democracy, saying, “Osun is a bastion of democracy. We are ready as we have the capacity to defend our democratic heritage.”