Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has urged residents of the state to remain resolute and turn out in large numbers to vote in the August 15 governorship election, assuring them that the outcome of the poll will be determined solely by the people’s votes.
Speaking at a political rally in Ipetumodu after commissioning the 10.4-kilometre Edunabon Tonkere Road in Ife North Local Government Area, the Governor encouraged supporters to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.
“Do not succumb to intimidation or fear as we head to the election. Go out and cast your vote for me again. We know that Osun belongs to us. You must be bold, be fearless, and nothing will happen to you,” Adeleke declared.
In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the Governor also appealed to security agencies and other stakeholders to uphold democratic principles by ensuring a peaceful, free, and credible electoral process.
Expressing concern over alleged incidents of voter intimidation and political violence ahead of the election, Adeleke stressed that his administration remains committed to peace despite prevailing tensions.
“We must defend democracy. If we truly want to practise democracy, then we must practise it the right way,” he said.
“It is not that we are afraid, but we are deliberately choosing peace. They do not want us to vote, but we will use our votes to express our democratic choice. Do not be intimidated or afraid,” the Governor added.
Earlier, Governor Adeleke commissioned the Edunabon–Tonkere Road, a project the state government said had ended more than four decades of neglect and restored a vital link connecting several communities in Ife North.
Following the inauguration, he held a town hall meeting with traditional rulers from the local government area. The monarchs, led by the Alakinlalu of Akinlalu, commended the Governor for delivering on infrastructure promises and fulfilling campaign commitments.
“When you came and made this promise to us, no one believed you would accomplish what you have done for us today,” the traditional ruler stated.
Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his commitment to inclusive governance and urged the people of Osun to defend their democratic rights by participating fully in the electoral process.