Adeleke Issues Warning Against Federal Interference in Osun Elections

Governor Ademola Adeleke has issued a stern warning against the use of federal power to sway the upcoming Osun election scheduled for August 15.

The governor lambasted the Osun State chapter of the All Progressive Congress (APC) for its threats to utilize federal might against voters, asserting that such power should be reserved for promoting good governance, not for manipulating electoral outcomes.

While addressing leaders and ward officials from the enlarged Accord party across the 332 wards in Osun, Adeleke condemned the Osun APC for what he described as an attempt to tarnish President Bola Tinubu's reputation by pledging to deploy federal resources for election rigging. He clarified that President Tinubu, as a democrat, does not support these anti-democratic claims.

“The president is focused on using federal resources to ensure good governance, seen in projects such as the reconstruction of the Ibadan-Ilesa road, student loan initiatives, and plans for state police,” said Adeleke, adding that neither the president nor his close associates back the Osun APC's threats leading up to the election.

Adeleke urged the Osun APC to cease disparaging President Bola Tinubu and the federal government. He called on them to support the president and represent him as a true democrat, noting that the APC's campaign has largely been detrimental to the people and democracy.

“People in Osun are committed to free and fair elections. They want their votes to determine who leads them. As candidates, our responsibility is to present our policies and earn their votes. Only those who engage in electoral malpractice would talk about rigging in a democracy.

“I encourage the people of Osun to remain vigilant and prepared for the August 15 elections. Your votes will decide the outcome, and no force can override the will of the people or God. Dismiss threats coming from those who claim federal backing; they lack genuine support from the president,” he urged party leaders.

During the event, Hon. Lasun Yusuf emphasized the need for electoral readiness, advocating for door-to-door campaigns and vigilant protection of the voting process, insisting that the power lies with the people and their votes must count.

Senator Olu Alabi, chairman of the Elders’ Forum, called on elders in all local governments to mobilize their communities in preparation for the election, ensuring the re-election of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

Additionally, Prof. Wale Oladipo, head of the Imole Movement, alongside the State Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Sunday Bisi, reaffirmed their backing for Adeleke, directing PDP members across the state to work diligently for his re-election.

Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Hon. Adewale Egbedun, who attended with assembly members, encouraged leaders to aim for a membership registration goal exceeding two million for Accord, promising that Governor Adeleke would secure a resounding re-election on August 15.