A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has called for peace among political parties, candidates and their supporters ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

Mr Oyintiloye, who spoke with journalists on Sunday in Osogbo, urged stakeholders to refrain from violence and ensure a peaceful electoral process, stressing that no political ambition is worth the life of any citizen.

Speaking against the backdrop of rising political tension in the state, he said such tension should not create fear or discourage citizens from exercising their constitutional right to vote.

The former lawmaker said the deployment of security personnel across the state should be seen as a preventive measure, not a cause for alarm.

He noted that such deployments were not unusual during elections and could be based on intelligence available to the Federal Government.

“Osun voters must not allow fear to discourage them from exercising their civic rights.

“They should come out in large numbers to vote.

“The presence of security should reassure our people that adequate measures are in place to protect them and ensure a peaceful process,” he said.

Mr Oyintiloye urged eligible voters to remain calm, vigilant and courageous, noting that their participation was essential to sustaining democracy.

He, however, expressed concern over reports of violent attacks, killings and alleged extrajudicial actions linked to political activities, adding that security agencies were making efforts to address the situation.

He called on security agencies to discharge their duties with professionalism, neutrality and accountability.

“Anyone found to have violated the law, irrespective of political affiliation or status, should face appropriate legal consequences. There must be no impunity,” he said.

Mr Oyintiloye also urged government and relevant agencies to intensify public sensitisation and provide accurate information to counter rumours and misinformation.

He said security arrangements should remain intelligence-driven, especially in vulnerable communities, while rapid-response mechanisms should be strengthened.

The APC chieftain condemned all acts of violence, killings, intimidation, and destruction linked to political activities.

He further urged political leaders and supporters to moderate their language and avoid inflammatory rhetoric capable of heightening tension.

Mr Oyintiloye called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure transparency, impartiality, and credibility throughout the electoral process.

He said whoever emerged through a credible process should be accepted, while aggrieved parties should seek redress through legal channels.

“The responsibility for a peaceful election rests on all stakeholders.

“Let every eligible voter come out. Let every vote count. Let every citizen return home safely.

Mr Oyintiloye expressed optimism that the election would be credible and reflect the will of the people, adding that the APC and its candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, were confident of victory based on grassroots support and mobilisation.

“While I remain committed to a peaceful and credible process, I am optimistic that our party, the APC, and our candidate, Asiwaju Oyebamiji, will emerge victorious,” he said.

(NAN)