Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has cast his vote in the highly contentious local government elections, brushing aside opposition from the federal government, security agencies, and the All Progressives Congress (APC). The polls, marred by legal and security concerns, have drawn intense scrutiny from political stakeholders.
Adeleke exercised his franchise at precisely 7:56 a.m. at Unit 9, Sagba Abogunde Ward 2, in Ede North Local Government Area. Accompanied by a strong contingent of supporters and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the governor’s presence at the polling unit signaled his unwavering commitment to the electoral process despite mounting pressure to halt the elections.
Commending the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) for its organization and the peaceful conduct of the polls, Adeleke called on residents to defy fear and intimidation by coming out en masse to vote. He emphasized the importance of a violence-free exercise, urging political actors and the electorate to uphold peace before, during, and after the elections.
“I want to urge everyone to come out and cast their votes. The election will be peaceful,” Adeleke assured, exuding confidence that PDP candidates would clinch victory across the state.
His stance comes amid warnings from the Nigeria Police Force, which had earlier advised the Osun government to suspend the elections due to potential security threats and legal hurdles. The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that credible intelligence suggested a high likelihood of violence if the elections proceeded.
Despite these concerns, Adeleke’s call for mass participation underscores his administration’s resolve to push forward with the local government elections, setting the stage for a politically charged outcome.
PIONEER NEWS 