The presence of several high-profile APC figures, including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, the Deputy Senate President, and other governors in Osun State on the eve of the governorship election has raised questions among opposition supporters and political observers.
Critics argue that such a concentration of influential political actors so close to polling day creates the perception of undue political pressure and could undermine public confidence in the electoral process. They have called on security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and election observers to ensure that the election is conducted in a transparent, peaceful, and credible manner.
Some opposition voices have urged Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration to work with the relevant authorities to strictly enforce all lawful election-day movement restrictions equally, regardless of status, and to ensure that no individual receives preferential treatment during the voting process.
They have also called on civil society organisations, election observers, and influential public figures to encourage voters to come out peacefully, exercise their constitutional right to vote, and remain vigilant against vote buying, intimidation, violence, or any other form of electoral malpractice. They stress that any allegations of electoral misconduct should be documented and reported through the appropriate legal and electoral channels.
The APC, INEC, and security agencies have consistently maintained that they are committed to conducting elections in accordance with the law and have rejected allegations of partisan conduct in the discharge of their official responsibilities.
“Trust is earned, not demanded. If confidence in INEC has diminished, the answer is not voter apathy but greater civic vigilance. A massive turnout, strict adherence to the Electoral Act, and peaceful monitoring of the voting and collation processes can help ensure that the will of the people prevails.”
