Hands Off Osun: Let the People Choose Their Governor Freely

As Osun State prepares for its gubernatorial election on 15 August, one principle must remain paramount: the election belongs to the people of Osun and no one else.
Election day should be about the voters—not political heavyweights, influential visitors, or displays of political power. Every eligible citizen deserves the opportunity to cast a ballot freely, peacefully, and without fear, intimidation, or undue influence.
As political leaders and supporters converge on Osun in the days leading up to the election, the public is entitled to expect that everyone will conduct themselves in a manner that strengthens, rather than undermines, confidence in the electoral process. Political actors, whether from within or outside the state, should respect the right of the people of Osun to determine their own future.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies have a constitutional duty to remain impartial and ensure that every vote is cast and counted in accordance with the law. Their professionalism and neutrality will be critical to the credibility of the election.
Citizens also have a responsibility. They should reject vote buying, resist every attempt to compromise their conscience, and report any suspected electoral offences through the appropriate legal channels. Democracy cannot thrive where votes are traded for temporary rewards or where intimidation replaces persuasion.
Some Nigerians have argued that restricting the movement of political actors who have no official role in the conduct of an election could help reduce tension and reinforce public confidence in the process, provided any such measures are lawful and applied fairly. Regardless of differing views on that proposal, all stakeholders should work to ensure that the focus on election day remains on the voters.
The gubernatorial election on 15 August is an opportunity for Osun to demonstrate the strength of democratic governance. The outcome should reflect only one thing: the freely expressed will of the people.
Hands off Osun. Let the people choose their governor freely. Let every lawful vote count.