Olufemi Adesuyi, governorship candidate of the Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) in Osun State, has urged security agencies to intensify efforts to curb political violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election. In a statement released in Osogbo on Wednesday, Adesuyi expressed deep concern over the rising number of violent incidents across the state, warning that such actions threaten public safety and the credibility of the electoral process. He called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security operatives to act decisively against perpetrators, regardless of their political affiliations.
Adesuyi emphasized that political violence must not be tolerated, stating that those involved in killings or other acts of aggression should be arrested and prosecuted without delay. He highlighted the growing trend of politically linked violence as a serious threat to democratic governance and peace in Osun. According to him, if left unchecked, the escalation of violence could undermine the integrity of the upcoming gubernatorial election.
“The trend of these killings, if left unchecked, will threaten the peace and democratic values in this state. That will definitely affect the credibility of the forthcoming August 15 gubernatorial election,” Adesuyi said. He stressed that politics should be a contest of ideas and service, not a battle that endangers lives. “We must not allow desperation to turn our democracy into a bloodbath. The rate at which political violence is spreading in Osun is worrisome. No position, no matter how highly placed, is worth wasting human blood for,” he added.
The ZLP candidate also appealed to politicians across all parties to conduct their campaigns peacefully and prioritize the welfare of Osun State over partisan interests. He reminded them that power is temporary and cannot be achieved through the shedding of innocent blood. “Politicians must understand that power is transient. You cannot achieve your ambition by shedding the blood of innocent people. Let us campaign with decorum, respect our opponents, and allow the people to decide freely,” he said.
Adesuyi urged all stakeholders to exercise restraint before, during, and after the election, reminding them that political differences should not turn residents into enemies. “Election is not war. Let us conduct ourselves peacefully, responsibly, and with respect for one another before, during, and after the election. Political differences should never make us enemies,” he stated.
He encouraged eligible voters not to be deterred by security concerns but to actively participate in the electoral process. His appeal comes amid heightened security concerns in Osun, which recently prompted a visit by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to assess the situation and strengthen security measures. As the election draws closer, Adesuyi’s call for peace underscores the growing need for a secure and credible democratic process in Osun State.
Leave a Comment