Chief Deji Wellington, who serves as the Lagos State Chairman for the Yoruba group Afenifere, has called on political figures in Osun to reject violence. During a conversation with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday, he emphasized that occupying a political office is not worth the price of human lives. With the governorship election scheduled for August 15, tensions have escalated, but Wellington reminded candidates that elections are transient events.
Wellington encouraged politicians to prioritize non-violent campaigning and to avoid activities that might trigger civil disorder. He also requested that the police maintain strict impartiality while executing their duty to protect residents and their property. He warned that if security forces are viewed as biased, the regional stability could deteriorate quickly.
Instead of resorting to conflict or weaponry, the Afenifere leader urged voters to use their Permanent Voter Cards to select their preferred candidates, noting that the ballot box is the correct venue for political change. Additionally, he expressed confidence that President Bola Tinubu is committed to a peaceful democratic process and expects all security personnel to act with professional integrity throughout the upcoming election.
