Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene in rising political violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Olorunda Local Government Area, Adeleke warned against a repeat of the 1983 crisis that destabilised the South‑West.
“President Tinubu, you asked us to endorse your re‑election which we have done. Why then are they killing our people?” Adeleke asked, questioning why violence was continuing despite the Accord Party’s endorsement of Tinubu for another presidential term.
Warning Against A Repeat Of 1983 Crisis
The governor drew parallels between today’s tensions and the aftermath of the 1983 elections, when widespread allegations of rigging triggered protests, arson and killings across the South‑West.
At the time, the National Party of Nigeria controlled the federal government, while the Unity Party of Nigeria, led by Obafemi Awolowo, dominated the region.
“Don’t let what happened in 1983 repeat itself. President Tinubu, Osun people and the Accord party have endorsed you as our presidential candidate. Why are we suffering? Why is our money being kept?” Adeleke said.
He accused the police of being compromised and urged federal authorities to direct security agencies toward kidnappers and organised criminals instead of political opponents.
“The police have become compromised. The kidnappers are there, let them go after them. President Tinubu, I am crying out to you now, so you won’t say I didn’t speak out. I am the chief security officer of Osun State.”
Calls For Oyetola’s Intervention And Peaceful Polls
Adeleke also asked Tinubu to caution Adegboyega Oyetola, his predecessor as governor and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy.
“Oyetola needs to be called to order. We all have children. May the blood of innocent children killed punish those behind the killings. May God punish them,” he said.
In a post on X, Adeleke reiterated his appeal: “Osun is bleeding, and our people will not be intimidated. His intervention is needed. The loss of innocent lives in Osun must stop. All we are asking for is simply a free and fair election.”
The governor stressed that democracy can only function when citizens are allowed to freely choose their leaders without intimidation.
He urged Tinubu to act as “father of the nation” and protect Nigeria’s democratic process, warning that the credibility of the 2027 general elections could also be at stake.
With renewed clashes between rival political camps, the stakes are high as Adeleke seeks re‑election under the Accord platform, while the All Progressives Congress attempts to reclaim the state.
“Democracy only works when the people are allowed to freely choose their leaders,” Adeleke concluded.
