Former Governor of Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola, has called on officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a free, fair and credible poll in the ongoing legislative election in the State. Oyetola, who spoke to journalists shortly after casting his vote alongside his wife, expressed concerns about the low turnout of voters and the violence that marred the election in some parts of the State.
The former Governor, who commended INEC for its diligence, urged the Commission to resist any temptation capable of compromising the electoral process. He also called on security agencies to address the menace of violence and intimidation by political thugs in some areas of the State.
Oyetola decried the low voter turnout, attributing it to the violence, intimidation and extra-judicial killings that have occurred in the State in the last three months. He urged residents to resist the antics of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and come out en masse to exercise their civic responsibilities.
The former Governor listed some Local Government Areas where violent attacks were reported to include Osogbo, Olorunda, Ilesa-West, Ilesa-East, Atakunmosa West, and Atakunmosa East, as well as Councils in the Ife axis. He called on security agencies and other concerned authorities to swing into action and bring the perpetrators to book.
Oyetola also urged INEC officials to ensure proper accreditation and prevent over-voting in any polling unit, saying that compromises could only lead to such an occurrence.
The House of Assembly election in Osun State has been characterised by low voter turnout and violent attacks in some parts of the State. Political thugs have been reported to have molested voters, particularly loyalists of the APC. Security agencies have been deployed to maintain law and order in the affected areas.