Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the growing political tension ahead of the upcoming governorship election on 15th August, alleging that violence and intimidation are threatening peace in the state.
Speaking at a campaign rally in Olorunda Local Government Area of Osogbo on Monday, Adeleke accused supporters of the opposition of attacking members of his party and warned against any attempt to manipulate the election.
His comments come amid heightened political activities as parties intensify campaigns before the governorship poll.
Addressing the president directly, the governor said, "President Bola Tinubu, something is happening in Osun State that you need to know.
"Our people are being killed, and as our father, we are appealing to you.
"We will not accept any attempt to rig this election."
Adeleke also drew parallels with the political violence that rocked parts of the Southwest in 1983, saying, "You will remember what happened in 1983.
"It started in Yorubaland, particularly in Ondo State.
"We do not want history to repeat itself.
"What we want is a free, fair and credible election."
In a message shared after the rally, the governor intensified his appeal, writing, "President Tinubu should not allow Oyetola set Osun on fire."
He added, "Osun is bleeding, and our people will not be intimidated.
"His intervention is needed.
"The loss of innocent lives in Osun must stop.
"All we are asking for is simply a free and fair election."
Adeleke further urged the president to "act as the father of this nation and help safeguard the democracy he fought for," while warning against a repeat of the political crisis that engulfed the old Western Region in 1983.
He said, "Democracy works when the people freely choose their leaders, a demand not too much for citizens of Osun State to make."
The governor's appeal comes barely a week after he and the national leadership of the Accord Party endorsed Tinubu for a second term in the 2027 presidential election, citing the need for continuity in key infrastructure projects.
The ruling All Progressives Congress has, however, vowed to reclaim Osun in the upcoming governorship election.
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