Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has called on political parties, security agencies, INEC and voters to ensure that Saturday’s Osun governorship election is peaceful, transparent and free from intimidation.
In a statement shared on his X account on Thursday, Obi said the people of Osun should be allowed to freely decide who governs them, urging all stakeholders to remain neutral and professional throughout the electoral process.
“Osun belongs to its people.”
The former Anambra State governor also appealed to residents to reject violence and avoid allowing political differences to divide communities.
“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.”
Obi speaks to INEC and security agencies
Obi urged INEC to ensure that votes are properly counted, protected and announced according to the wishes of the electorate.
He also called on security agencies to remain committed to the Constitution and protect voters regardless of their political affiliations.
“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 further asked election observers, diplomatic missions and the international community to closely monitor the poll, saying their presence could help strengthen confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
According to Obi, the election should prove that political competition can happen without violence and that leadership can change through the ballot box.
“Let every vote count. Let every voter be protected. Let every legitimate result be respected. And above all, let peace reign in Osun State.”
He added that the election would be watched beyond Nigeria, urging all stakeholders to deliver a process that would strengthen public confidence in the country’s democratic institutions.
“Democracy is not merely about who wins. Democracy is about whether the people are truly allowed to choose.”
Source: Statement by Peter Obi published on his official X account.
