Osun residents won't give in to fear, says Adeleke

Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has said that the people of Osun will not give in to fear as the August 15 governorship election approaches. He is sure that voters will stand up for their democratic rights at the polls.

In a post on his official X handle on Thursday, Adeleke mentioned that Osun people have a strong history of fighting against oppression. He believes they will once again show their strength despite what he calls outside interference.

“Throughout the history of Osun State, our people have never bowed to intimidation. We are resilient, determined, and fiercely protective of our rights.

“As we approach the August 15 governorship election, I have absolute confidence that no amount of external interference or intimidation can override the collective will of the people of Osun State. The verdict of the people will prevail,” he wrote.

The governor also pointed out that independent opinion polls show a likely victory for the Accord Party. He said this is due to what he described as the successes of his government.

According to him, his administration has made strides in infrastructure, education, healthcare, workers’ welfare, and pension reforms.

“Independent polls consistently point to a clear and decisive victory for Accord Party because the people can see and feel the impact of our administration. From infrastructure and education to healthcare, workers’ welfare, and pension reforms, our record speaks for itself.

“By the grace of God and with the continued support of the good people of Osun, our second term will build on these achievements and deliver even greater progress for every community. The best days of Osun are still ahead.

“Let’s remain united and vigilant. Vote Accord and be prepared to defend your votes,” Adeleke added.

His remarks come amid rising political tension in the state. This follows the arrest of the Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaiye, and five others by the Osun State Police Command over alleged electoral offences.

The police said they arrested the suspects during a raid on Igbalaiye’s home in Osogbo. They reportedly found N4.81 million, two Permanent Voter Cards, a voter register, and other items linked to vote-buying and other electoral offences.

The command stated that the arrests were based on credible intelligence and insisted that investigations are still ongoing.

However, the Osun State Government and the Adeleke Campaign Organisation rejected the claims. They accused the police of making politically motivated arrests to intimidate opposition members before the election.

The state government alleged that the police invaded the homes of several officials without search warrants. The campaign group claimed that many of its supporters had been arrested and held without proper reasons.

The police denied these claims, saying only six suspects were arrested and that the operation followed the law.