Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the wave of political violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election, saying the people of the state should not be subjected to attacks after endorsing the President’s 2027 re-election bid.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Olorunda Local Government Area on Monday, Adeleke urged Tinubu to prevent a repeat of the political violence that followed the disputed 1983 governorship election in the South-West.
The governor said the Accord Party in Osun had already declared its support for Tinubu’s second-term ambition and questioned why violence had continued in the state.
“President Tinubu, you asked us to endorse your re-election which we have done. Why then are they killing our people?” Adeleke said.
He alleged that residents were being intimidated ahead of the election and appealed to the President to ensure that the poll is free, fair and credible.
Drawing parallels with the 1983 political crisis, Adeleke warned that Osun people would not accept any attempt to manipulate the outcome of the election.
Why Are we Suffering Despite your Endorsement – Adeleke Questions Tinubu
“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?” he said.
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The governor also accused the police of failing to act impartially, alleging that security agencies had become compromised instead of focusing on criminals.
“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,” he said.
Adeleke further called on the President to caution his predecessor and current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, over the political situation in the state.
“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.
He added: “What’s the problem, President Tinubu? Oyetola has fought everyone.”
The governor later renewed his appeal in a post on his X account, insisting that Osun deserved peace and a transparent electoral process.
According to him, Tinubu should act as a father to the nation by protecting lives and preserving the democratic values he fought for over the years.
Adeleke said the President should not allow political developments in Osun to damage his democratic credentials, especially with the 2027 general election approaching.
He maintained that democracy can only thrive where voters are free to choose their leaders without intimidation or violence, adding that all the people of Osun were demanding was a peaceful, free and fair governorship election.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.