Peter Obi, a former governor and former presidential candidate, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, and political actors to ensure a peaceful and credible governorship election in Osun State.
In a statement posted on his official social media page, Obi urged all stakeholders to allow residents to choose their leaders without intimidation or violence. He emphasized that Osun State belongs to its people and appealed to INEC, security agencies, political parties, candidates, and other actors to remain neutral and professional throughout the process.
“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,” Obi stated.
He appealed directly to residents not to allow politicians to turn neighbours, friends, and communities against each other. Obi also warned politicians, supporters, influencers, and financiers from outside the state against importing violence or intimidation into the electoral process.
“Your loyalty must be to Nigeria and the Constitution, not to any political party or individual. Your duty is to protect every voter equally,” he said.
Obi charged INEC to guarantee the election’s credibility at every stage — from accreditation and voting to the collation and declaration of results — insisting that every irregularity be addressed seriously and every legitimate vote count.
He further appealed to international observers and diplomatic missions to monitor the election closely, noting that their presence could boost public confidence. The contest, he added, should demonstrate that political competition can occur without violence and that leadership can change through ballots rather than bloodshed.
“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,” Obi concluded.
