“No Political Ambition Is Worth a Life” — Oyintiloye Warns Against Violence Ahead of Osun Guber Poll

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An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Osun State, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has called on political parties, candidates, supporters and voters to reject violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election, declaring that no political ambition is worth the life of any citizen.

Oyintiloye made the appeal in Osogbo on Sunday while speaking with journalists against the backdrop of heightened political activities and growing tension ahead of the poll.

The former lawmaker urged all stakeholders to conduct themselves peacefully and ensure that the election does not become a source of fear or discourage eligible voters from exercising their constitutional right to vote.

He described the ongoing deployment of security personnel across the state as a necessary precaution ahead of the election, rather than something residents should fear.

According to him, security deployments are a normal feature of major elections and are often informed by intelligence available to the Federal Government and security agencies.

“Osun voters must not allow fear to discourage them from exercising their civic rights. They should come out in large numbers to vote. The presence of security should reassure our people that adequate measures are in place to protect them and ensure a peaceful process,” he said.

Oyintiloye urged voters to remain calm, vigilant and courageous, stressing that citizens’ participation is essential to strengthening democratic governance.

He, however, expressed concern over reports of violent attacks, killings and alleged extrajudicial actions associated with political activities, urging security agencies to take decisive steps to prevent further escalation.

The APC chieftain charged security personnel deployed for the election to operate professionally, impartially and within the confines of the law.

“Anyone found to have violated the law, irrespective of political affiliation or status, should face appropriate legal consequences. There must be no impunity,” he declared.

Oyintiloye also called on the government and relevant agencies to intensify public sensitisation ahead of the election, particularly in communities considered vulnerable to political violence.

He stressed the need for authorities to provide timely and accurate information to counter rumours and misinformation that could heighten anxiety among voters.

According to him, security arrangements should remain intelligence-driven, while rapid-response mechanisms should be strengthened to enable security agencies respond quickly to threats or incidents during the electoral process.

The APC chieftain condemned acts of violence, killings, intimidation and destruction allegedly linked to political activities and appealed to political leaders to moderate their rhetoric.

He warned that inflammatory statements by politicians and their supporters could further raise tensions and create unnecessary divisions among residents.

Oyintiloye also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure that the August 15 election is transparent, impartial and credible.

He urged all candidates and political parties to accept the outcome of a free and credible election, while reminding those who may feel aggrieved that the courts remain the appropriate avenue for seeking redress.

“The responsibility for a peaceful election rests on all stakeholders. Let every eligible voter come out. Let every vote count. Let every citizen return home safely,” he said.

Despite his call for a peaceful contest, Oyintiloye expressed confidence that the APC and its governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, would emerge victorious.

He attributed the party’s optimism to what he described as strong grassroots support and mobilisation across the state.

“While I remain committed to a peaceful and credible process, I am optimistic that our party, the APC, and our candidate, Asiwaju Oyebamiji, will emerge victorious,” he added.

With the August 15 governorship election drawing closer, political parties are intensifying their campaigns and mobilisation across Osun, while calls for peaceful participation and credible voting continue to dominate discussions ahead of the poll.