Key Takeaways
- The Imole Campaign Council alleges a plot by the APC to end voting by 12 noon in certain areas of Osun State
- The plot allegedly targets local government areas that are strongholds of Governor Ademola Adeleke
- The council claims the move is aimed at suppressing votes and disenfranchising eligible voters
The Imole Campaign Council has made a serious allegation against the All Progressives Congress (APC), claiming that the party is plotting to pressure the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to end voting abruptly by 12 noon in some parts of Osun State during the August 15 governorship election. According to the council, this plot is targeted at local government areas that are regarded as political strongholds of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
The council, in a statement issued by its spokesman, Pelumi Olajengbesi, claimed that the alleged plan is aimed at suppressing votes and disenfranchising eligible voters in the affected areas. The statement emphasized that the people of Osun State must be allowed to exercise their constitutional right to vote freely and peacefully without obstruction, intimidation, or deliberate disenfranchisement.
Background and Context
This allegation is not an isolated incident, as the council further alleged that the APC had previously attempted to exclude Adeleke and his party from the ballot through legal challenges. The party is also accused of resorting to arrests, intimidation, and harassment of Accord Party members by the police. The council views the purported attempt to influence INEC as another effort to undermine the electoral process after the earlier measures allegedly failed to weaken support for the governor.
The council has urged INEC to resist any political pressure and adhere strictly to established voting procedures and timelines during the election. It also called on INEC to ensure that electoral rules are applied uniformly across the state without fear, favour, or political interference.
The council has also called on civil society organisations, election observers, international bodies, and the media to monitor the election closely and act as watchdogs against any attempt to manipulate state institutions. The Osun State governorship election is seen as a precursor to the 2027 general elections, and it must be free, fair, transparent, and devoid of any manipulation or disenfranchisement.
Why This Matters
The allegation of a plot to disenfranchise voters in Osun State is a serious matter that requires close attention from all stakeholders, including INEC, civil society organisations, and the international community. The outcome of this election will not only determine the future of Osun State but also set a precedent for the 2027 general elections, making it essential that the electoral process is free, fair, and transparent.