A group known as the Partnership for Ethical Governance has requested that political factions involved in the upcoming August 15 Osun State governorship election maintain professional conduct and respect democratic principles. The coalition’s leader, Comrade Debo Adeniran, voiced alarm regarding the increase in targeted violence and intimidation, noting that these actions threaten the integrity of the election.
Adeniran emphasized that political participation should not be viewed as a battlefield. He remarked that democratic systems are designed to allow citizens to select their representatives without the threat of physical harm or coercion. He warned that prioritizing electoral success over human safety creates deep trauma and long-term societal damage.
The coalition advised voters in Osun to exercise their franchise peacefully, stating that the health of the democracy depends on the free expression of the electorate. They specifically reached out to the leadership of the All Progressives Congress, Accord Party, African Democratic Congress, and All Progressives Movement, urging them to control their supporters.
Furthermore, the group called for the rejection of hostile rhetoric and encouraged parties to resolve disputes through legal channels. Adeniran highlighted the danger of mobilizing youths for violence, reminding leaders that vulnerable populations typically suffer the most while those who incite unrest often remain unaffected.