As Osun State prepares for its upcoming election, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, *Mr. Peter Obi*, has called on all stakeholders to ensure the process is free, fair, peaceful and credible.
In a statement made his verified X handle Obi urged Nigerians, political actors, security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, civil society, traditional and religious leaders, the media, and the international community to uphold their “solemn responsibility” to democracy.
*”Osun belongs to its people,”* Obi declared. *”The people of Osun must be allowed to vote freely, safely, and without intimidation. Their votes must be counted transparently, protected faithfully, and announced according to the genuine will of the electorate.”*
*Appeal for Peace Within Osun*
Addressing residents directly, Obi appealed for calm and unity.
“Do not allow politicians to turn your neighbours, friends, and communities against each other. Do not destroy your state in the name of winning an election. Nigeria is bigger than any candidate, and Osun is greater than any political party,” he said.
He also cautioned politicians, supporters, influencers, and financiers from outside the state against “importing violence, intimidation, or desperation” into Osun.
*Charge to INEC and Security Agencies*
Obi tasked security agencies to remain loyal to the Constitution and not to any party or individual. “Your duty is to protect every voter equally,” he stressed.
To INEC, he said the credibility of the election must be safeguarded “from the preparatory stages to accreditation, voting, collation, and declaration.” He called for every irregularity to be addressed seriously and every legitimate vote to count.
*Call to International Observers*
The former governor also urged the diplomatic community and election observers to monitor Osun closely.
“Your presence, vigilance, and principled observation can bolster confidence in our democratic process. Nigeria welcomes genuine partnerships in the protection of democracy, peace, and the rule of law,” he added.
*”Democracy is About Choice”*
Obi concluded by saying democracy is not just about who wins, but whether the people are truly allowed to choose.
“Let Osun demonstrate to Nigeria, and indeed the world, that political competition can be intense without degenerating into violence; that disagreement can exist without hatred; and that power can change hands through ballots rather than blood.”
*”Let every vote count. Let every voter be protected. Let every legitimate result be respected. And above all, let peace reign in Osun State. Nigeria is watching. Africa is watching. The world is watching. A new Nigeria is POssible.”*
The statement comes amid heightened political activities in Osun ahead of the polls, with citizens and observers calling for an election that will strengthen democratic culture in Nigeria.
