A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Hon. Olatunbosun Oyintiloye has urged the Commissioner of Police deployed for the August 15 governorship election in the state, Mr Samuel Etaifo, to ensure a violence-free poll.
Oyintiloye, who made this call while speaking with newsmen on Sunday in Osogbo, the State capital, stressed that a credible election could only be achieved in a peaceful atmosphere.
This is as he urged the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) to be neutral and professional in the discharge of it’s duties, particularly on the election day.
The APC chieftain said the election is already generating tension, the reason why the police must ensure the protection of voters and the integrity of the ballot.
“The protection of the electorate before, during, and after the election should be the major priority of the police.
“I want to appeal to the Commissioner of Police deployed for the election to ensure adequate protection of the electorate at all stages of the electoral process.
“A credible election can only take place in a peaceful environment. That is why we are urging security agencies, particularly the police, to maintain a peaceful atmosphere,” he said.
Oyintiloye also urged political actors, especially members of opposition parties, to shun violence, noting that elections are not a war and should not be treated as such.
He also appealed to members of the public to cooperate with and support security operatives in their efforts to ensure the safety of lives and property before, during, and after the election.
He called on the police not to spare anyone who might foment trouble, irrespective of political affiliation, adding that the state should not be turned into a theatre of violence because of the election.
“Elections will come and go, but the state and its people will remain. Police and other security agencies must not spare anyone caught fomenting trouble regardless of status,” he said.
The APC chieftain also expressed optimism that the party’s candidate, Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, would emerge victorious in the election.
He described Oyebamiji as a competent, experienced, and visionary leader whose commitment to inclusive governance and people-oriented policies would accelerate development and improve the welfare of all residents of Osun State.
He said Oyebamiji and the APC would record a resounding victory with the support of the electorate.
