Osun Poll: Adeleke, Oyebamiji, Salaam cast votes, express confidence
By Adewale Owoade
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke of Accord Party, Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC), and Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Saturday cast their votes in the state’s governorship election.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some voters arrived at their polling units as early as 6:40 a.m., awaiting the arrival of officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for accreditation.
Security personnel were also deployed to various locations across the state, manning checkpoints in compliance with the restriction on vehicular movement during the election.
NAN reports that local election observers were also seen at some polling units monitoring developments ahead of the commencement of accreditation and voting.
Adeleke cast his ballot at Sagba Abogunde Ward 2, Unit 9, in Ede North Local Government Area at about 8:35 a.m.
Speaking after voting, the governor expressed confidence in his victory, while urging voters to remain peaceful and law-abiding throughout the voting and collation processes.
He also appealed to voters to remain at their polling units and monitor the process in accordance with INEC guidelines.
“Yes, I’ve done my civic duty. I’ve voted and, as of now, things are going on peacefully. I hope it stays that way.
“Let the security agencies, please, be neutral and watch it. But I can assure you, at the end of the day, I have God on my side and I have my people on my side. I’m going to win this election.”
Similarly, Oyebamiji cast his vote at Unit 11, Ward 9, Open Space Gantry Sawmill, Ikire, in Irewole Local Government Area, at about 10:45 a.m.
The APC candidate expressed optimism that the election would be peaceful and credible, while urging the police and other security agencies to remain proactive in protecting voters.
“I believe the election will be credible and I am confident that I will win this election at the end of the day.
“It shows that people are not intimidated and, generally, things are going on fine across the state.”
Also, Salaam voted at Ward 4, Unit 13, Iroyin Ayo, Ejigbo Local Government Area, at about 10:39 a.m.
The ADC candidate denied allegations that his party was involved in vote buying, saying his campaign had focused on communicating its programmes to the electorate.
“We converse with the people and let them know our programmes. That is exactly what we do. Vote buying is out of it. I have never in my life bought votes.
“People will decide whom they want, and I think it should be fair enough for them to have the right to choose whom they prefer as a candidate or as the governor of the state.”
The three major candidates urged voters and political actors to maintain peace as the electoral process progresses to the collation stage.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)