By Ahmed Akanbi

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has urged residents and indigenes to disregard rumors of election rigging and political violence ahead of the August 15 governorship poll, expressing confidence that his administration will secure a decisive victory.

Speaking on the forthcoming election in Osogbo, the governor said efforts were in place to guarantee that citizens exercise their franchise without intimidation.

“All hands are on deck to ensure that our people exercise their voting rights without any hindrance, Our votes will count and we shall emerge victorious,” Adeleke said.

He called on Osun people to ignore what he described as “scaremongering, rigging rumors, and threats,” arguing that such tactics have only strengthened public resolve to sustain good governance in the state.

“Residents and voters are determined to ensure free and fair elections within the law, through both formal and community structures.

“No one, I repeat, no one can deny Osun people their legitimate right to choose their leaders.

“We are the cradle of the Yoruba nation. We are also the ancestral home state of Mr. President. No security or electoral official will dare set Osun ablaze. No federal official will contemplate rigging the upcoming election in Osun State.

“We are closely monitoring all pre-election activities, and structures are already in place for both the election and post-election periods. We are leaving nothing to chance,” Adeleke stated.

Addressing divisions within the main opposition party in the state, the governor invited politicians and other stakeholders to support his re-election bid.

“My candidacy transcends party lines. It is a pan-Osun movement, a broad coalition aimed at moving the state beyond underdevelopment

“Our doors remain open for new members to join our party. I urge politicians and non-partisan stakeholders to join me in the Accord ahead of August 15. It is better to leave a sinking ship and align with the progress my candidacy represents,” he added.