BY AHMED AKANBI
The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) has formally adopted the candidature of Governor Ademola Adeleke of Accord Party (AP) for the Osun State governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026.
National Chairman of the coalition, Dr Samson Isibor, announced the endorsement on Tuesday in Benin-City, said the decision followed extensive consideration of developments in Osun State and the performance of the present administration.
“After extensive consideration of developments in Osun State, the performance of the present administration and the need to sustain the state’s development trajectory, the CRPP has resolved to support Governor Adeleke for a second term,” Isibor stated.
The coalition said at a press conference addressed by the chairman that its position is based principally on its assessment that Adeleke has performed creditably well in office and deserves the opportunity to consolidate his administration’s achievements.
CRPP urged the electorate to come out in large numbers to vote for Adeleke and ensure that their votes are properly counted.
The coalition also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain transparent, impartial and professional throughout the voting, counting, collation and declaration processes.
It further urged the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and other security agencies to provide a level playing ground for all participants.
“The security agencies must protect voters, candidates, party agents, electoral officials and election materials without discrimination,” Isibor said.
The CRPP issued a strong warning against any attempt to rig, manipulate or subvert the August 15 election.
“We warn against vote buying, voter intimidation, manipulation of electoral materials, falsification of results, interference with the collation process and any other practice capable of undermining the will of the Osun electorate,” the coalition said.
Isibor expressed concern over reported intimidation, arrest and harassment of Accord members and supporters ahead of the election.
He called on the Nigeria Police leadership to immediately end any form of intimidation or unlawful restriction allegedly targeted at Accord members.
“The police must understand that their constitutional responsibility is to protect all citizens and provide a secure environment for every political party and candidate to campaign freely.
“We strongly advise the police against allowing themselves to be used to intimidate members of the Accord or any other political party. Security agencies must remain neutral, professional and impartial,” he stated.
Concluding, the CRPP said it will continue to defend constitutional democracy and the right of citizens to freely choose their leaders.
“Osun belongs to its people. Let the people decide,” Isibor said.