Ex-Lawmaker Urges Police to Keep Peace During Osun Election

A former lawmaker from Obokun State Constituency in the Osun State House of Assembly, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has urged the police to stay neutral in the upcoming Osun State governorship election. He wants them to take strong action against anyone who tries to create trouble, no matter their status.

This message came in a statement signed by Oyintiloye and released in Osogbo on Sunday.

Oyintiloye said the Commissioner of Police for the election, Mr Samuel Etaifo, should collaborate with other security agencies to make sure the elections are free from violence.

He called on the police to act neutrally and professionally, especially on election day. He noted that the election is already causing tension, so the police must protect voters and ensure the ballot's integrity.

"The protection of the electorate before, during, and after the election should be the major priority of the police. I want to appeal to the Commissioner of Police to ensure adequate protection of the electorate at all stages of the electoral process."

"A credible election can only take place in a peaceful environment. That is why we are urging security agencies, particularly the police, to maintain a peaceful atmosphere."

"Elections will come and go, but the state and its people will remain. Police and other security agencies must not spare anyone caught causing trouble, regardless of status," he stated.

He also encouraged political actors, especially from opposition parties, to avoid violence. He emphasized that elections should not be treated like a war.

Oyintiloye asked the public to support security operatives in keeping lives and property safe before, during, and after the election. He challenged the police to not spare anyone who might cause trouble, no matter their political ties.

He added that the state should not be turned into a place of violence because of the election.

The APC leader expressed hope that the party’s candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, would win the election.

He described Oyebamiji as a skilled, experienced, and forward-thinking leader. He believes Oyebamiji's focus on inclusive governance and people-friendly policies will boost development and improve the lives of everyone in Osun State.

The people of Osun will vote on August 15 to choose a new governor, with 14 political parties fielding candidates.