Tinubu Assures Osun Voters Of Safety Ahead Of Saturday’s Election

President Bola Tinubu has assured voters in Osun State that adequate security measures have been put in place for Saturday’s governorship election, urging them to vote freely and without fear.

Represented by Senate President Godswill Akpabio at the All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally in Osogbo on Thursday, Tinubu called on political parties and their supporters to shun violence, intimidation and harassment before, during and after the election.

He urged Osun residents to choose their preferred candidates peacefully, saying no voter should be afraid of going to the polls.

“Feel very free to cast your votes for the candidate of your choice. Nobody will molest you. Nobody will harass or intimidate one another,” Tinubu said.

The President also expressed confidence in the APC’s chances of winning the election, while urging voters to support the party’s candidate, Bola Oyebamiji.

The assurance came amid growing concerns over political violence in parts of the state. Governor Ademola Adeleke on Thursday condemned recent killings and destruction of property in Esa-Oke, directing security agencies to increase their presence in the area and investigate the incidents.

Adeleke also called on political actors and their supporters to avoid inflammatory statements and allow voters to freely choose their leaders at the ballot box.

Meanwhile, Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu announced measures to strengthen security for the election. He prohibited state-established security outfits, quasi-security groups and private security organisations from taking part in election duties.

The police also banned unauthorised armed escorts and security aides from accompanying political figures to polling units and collation centres. Disu warned that ballot snatching, voter intimidation, thuggery and other electoral offences would attract arrest and prosecution.

Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ishyaku Mohammed has been deployed to coordinate election security operations, with additional senior officers assigned across the state’s three senatorial districts.

The police said adequate arrangements had been made to protect voters, INEC officials, election materials, polling units, observers and journalists.

At the APC rally, Akpabio urged voters to support Oyebamiji, arguing that his election would strengthen Osun’s relationship with the Federal Government and attract more development to the state. He also challenged the APC candidate to prioritise infrastructure and improve living conditions if elected.

Oyebamiji promised an inclusive administration, while several APC governors and political leaders urged Osun voters to support the party.

The election takes place against the backdrop of heightened political tensions, with both the APC and Accord Party led by incumbent Governor Adeleke seeking to secure victory. Stakeholders have continued to appeal for a peaceful, credible and violence-free poll.