BY AHMED AKANBI
The Planter of Christ Apostolic Church Adamimogo, Grace of Mercy Prayer Mountain Worldwide, Prophet Sam Olu-Alo, has urged Osun voters to “vote with conscience, not money” ahead of Saturday’s governorship election, warning that politicians who buy votes will loot the state treasury to recover their spending.
Olu-Alo gave the warning during the church’s annual prayer and fasting programme at the Adamimogo Jesus City Camp Ground, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos.
He told the electorate to resist financial inducements and instead vote for candidates with competence, character and vision to govern the state.
“Vote with your conscience and not for money. If you sell your votes in Osun to the highest bidder, know that those who buy the votes from you will first ensure they loot the treasury to retrieve their money when they get to power,” he said.
The cleric argued that vote buying undermines good governance because politicians who spend heavily to win elections are often tempted to recoup their investments through public funds.
He also urged voters to examine the track records, programmes and capacity of candidates before casting their ballots, stressing that the consequences of electoral choices extend beyond election day.
Olu-Alo further cautioned against allowing bitterness or political sentiments to influence voting decisions, and advised the electorate to support whoever they genuinely believe can deliver development.
The cleric expressed concern over the use of youths for electoral violence, warning them against being used by politicians.
“Most of these politicians who send you on such deadly errands have their children living abroad and well protected, but put your life in danger when they send you on such errands,” he said.
He appealed to youths to reject violence, protect their lives and ensure their votes count.
Beyond the election, Olu-Alo said the church has been empowering members with vocational and digital skills including digital marketing, tailoring and Adire making to promote self-reliance.
The Osun governorship election is scheduled for August 15. Incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party is seeking re-election, while the All Progressives Congress, APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji and his counterpart in African Democratic Congress, Najeem Salaam are other major contenders.