The Governorship Candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Najeem Salaam, has expressed confidence in winning the ongoing Osun governorship election, insisting that the people of the state are ready for a change.
Salaam spoke after casting his vote at Unit 003, Iroyin Ayo Open Space, Ward 004, Ejigbo, where he arrived with his wife.
The former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly said reports from across the state indicated a strong desire among voters for a new direction.
“Without manipulation, I will win this election. The people of Osun are behind me and they are ready for change. What we have been hearing from across the state shows that there is a strong desire for a new direction,” he said.
Salaam Raises Concern of Widespread Manipulation
However, Salaam raised concerns over alleged irregularities in the election, claiming that reports reaching him from different parts of the state indicated widespread manipulation.
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“From the information I am getting across the state, there is widespread manipulation. We are monitoring the situation and we are hopeful that the will of the people will ultimately prevail,” he said.
The ADC candidate also denied allegations of vote buying by his party, saying the electorate should be allowed to freely choose their preferred candidates.
“Our party is not involved in vote buying. We believe that the people should be allowed to freely choose the candidate they want. We are here to participate in a democratic process and we expect the votes of the people to count,” he said.
Salaam further alleged that some ADC agents were prevented from participating in the electoral process at certain polling units.
He described the development as a concern that could affect the transparency of the election and urged voters and his supporters to remain peaceful and vigilant as voting and counting continued.
Source: Vanguard
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.