By Tony Ezimakor, Abuja
As stakeholders round off preparation for Saturday’s governorship election in Osun State, Presidential Candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in 2027 election, Peter Obi has directed attention of Nigerians, public institutions, political actors, the diplomatic community, international observers, and all friends of Nigeria to the need to support the people of Osun chose their leaders peacefully and without intimidation.
He therefore urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, political parties, candidates, government institutions, civil society organisations, religious and traditional leaders, the media, and every stakeholder to act with highest degree of neutrality, professionalism, and restraint, stressing that Osun State belongs to the people of Osun.
“The people of Osun must be allowed to vote freely, safely, and without intimidation. Their votes must be counted transparently, protected faithfully, and announced according to the genuine will of the electorate.
“To those within Osun State, I appeal for peace. Do not allow politicians to turn your neighbours, friends, and communities against each other. Do not destroy your state in the name of winning an election. Nigeria is bigger than any candidate, and Osun is greater than any political party.
“To those outside Osun –politicians, supporters, influencers, and financiers-, I urge you to exercise restraint. Do not import violence, intimidation, or desperation into a state whose pe)ople have the constitutional right to choose their leaders peacefully.
“To our security agencies, your loyalty must be to Nigeria and the Constitution, not to any political party or individual. Your duty is to protect every voter equally.
“To INEC, the credibility of this election must be safeguarded from the preparatory stages to accreditation, voting, collation, and declaration. Every irregularity must be addressed seriously, and every legitimate vote must count.
“And to the international community, diplomatic missions, and election observers: please monitor Osun closely. Your presence, vigilance, and principled observation can bolster confidence in our democratic process. Nigeria welcomes genuine partnerships in the protection of democracy, peace, and the rule of law,” Obi declared.
Speaking further, he said Osun people have been presented a rare opportunity to demonstrate their adherence to rules of engagement, pointing out that political contest can be intense without degenerating into violence.
“Let Osun demonstrate to Nigeria, and indeed the world, that political competition can be intense without degenerating into violence; that disagreement can exist without hatred; and that power can change hands through ballots rather than blood.
“Let every vote count. Let every voter be protected. Let every legitimate result be respected. And above all, let peace reign in Osun State.
“Nigeria is watching. Africa is watching. The world is watching,” he warned.
*PHOTO CAPTION: Obi.
