Larne Issa-Onilu, the Director General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), has urged Osun State residents to reject any attempts by politicians to sway their votes through financial or material inducements. Speaking at a press conference regarding voter education for the August 15 governorship election, he warned that trading votes for immediate gain invites long-term issues like poor infrastructure and insecurity.
Represented by Zonal Director Kehinde Ogunkunade, the NOA chief emphasized that political campaigns should focus on issues rather than intimidation or violence. He specifically warned youths against being exploited as tools for political thuggery, stating that no candidate’s ambition justifies the loss of life. He further encouraged participants to view voting as a vital civic responsibility necessary to maintain democratic integrity.
Issa-Onilu praised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security forces for their efforts to guarantee a credible process. He addressed concerns regarding voter apathy, reminding citizens that casting a ballot is the most powerful tool for shaping governance. The agency also highlighted the importance of the National Values Charter, noting that integrity and tolerance are essential for a stable democracy.
Addressing local tensions, Osun State NOA Director Adebiyi Stephen Adefarasin clarified that the agency remains strictly neutral and has not blamed any specific party for recent violence. He has instructed all local orientation officers to increase outreach efforts to ensure high voter turnout on election day.
