Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to direct security agencies deployed for the governorship election to protect the integrity of the ongoing collation of results.
Adeleke made the appeal in a statement on his X account on Saturday evening, expressing concern over alleged attempts by politicians to disrupt or take control of collation centres across the state.
The governor called on President Tinubu to issue clear instructions to security agencies to safeguard the electoral process and protect the votes cast by Osun residents.
“It is imperative that you use your good office to issue a clear warning to the heads of security agencies deployed to protect the good people of Osun State and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process,” Adeleke said.
He described reports of alleged attempts to disrupt collation centres as “deeply concerning and unacceptable,” particularly given the large number of security personnel deployed for the election.
Adeleke urged the President to reaffirm his commitment to ensuring that the votes of Osun residents count and that the final result reflects the choice of the electorate.
“I therefore implore you to reiterate the commitment made to the people of Osun State that their votes will count and that the outcome of this election will reflect their genuine choice,” he said.
The governor specifically appealed to the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigerian Army and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to remain professional and adhere to their responsibilities throughout the collation process.
He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to receive all necessary support to complete the exercise and deliver a credible and transparent result.
“The Nigeria Police, DSS, Nigerian Army, NSCDC and other security agencies must strictly adhere to this directive, while INEC must be given every necessary support to conclude the process and deliver a credible and transparent outcome,” Adeleke said.
He maintained that the people of Osun State had made their choice through the ballot and that their votes and mandate must be protected.
Adeleke also commended residents for turning out to vote and urged security agencies to remain vigilant as results move from polling units to ward and local government collation centres.
“Against all odds, the people of Osun State have turned out in large numbers and are speaking with one voice. The safety and protection of our people is paramount,” he said.
The governor further urged INEC to maintain the highest standards of integrity during the collation and announcement of results.
He said the Federal Government had provided adequate security for the election and expressed confidence in the professionalism of the institutions involved.
Adeleke appealed to residents to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding while the collation process continues.
“To every Osun citizen: I urge you to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to this democratic moment,” he said.
