Presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, NDC, in the 2027 general election, Mr. Peter Obi has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, political parties, security agencies and all stakeholders to ensure a peaceful conduct of Saturday’s governorship election in Osun State.
Obi stated this in a post on his social media accounts.
He drew the attention of Nigerians, institutions, political actors, the diplomatic community, international observers, and all friends of Nigeria across the world to what he described as “the solemn responsibility before us.”
Pointing out that Osun belongs to its people, Obi called all those involved in the election to act with the highest degree of neutrality, professionalism, and restraint.
“The people of Osun must be allowed to vote freely, safely, and without intimidation.
“Their votes must be counted transparently, protected faithfully, and announced according to the genuine will of the electorate,” Obi said.
Appealing for peace in the state, Obi urged those within Osun not allow politicians to turn their neighbours, friends, and communities against each other.
“Do not destroy your state in the name of winning an election.
“Nigeria is bigger than any candidate, and Osun is greater than any political party,” he said.
The former governor of Anambra State, also urged those outside Osun, including politicians, supporters, influencers, and financiers, to exercise restraint.
“Do not import violence, intimidation, or desperation into a state whose people have the constitutional right to choose their leaders peacefully,” he advised.
Obi also urged the security agencies, INEC and the international community to show loyalty to laws, to ensures votes count and to monitor the exercise closely for its credibility.
“To our security agencies, your loyalty must be to Nigeria and the Constitution, not to any political party or individual. Your duty is to protect every voter equally.
“To INEC, the credibility of this election must be safeguarded from the preparatory stages to accreditation, voting, collation, and declaration.
:Every irregularity must be addressed seriously, and every legitimate vote must count.
“And to the international community, diplomatic missions, and election observers: please monitor Osun closely.
“Your presence, vigilance, and principled observation can bolster confidence in our democratic process. Nigeria welcomes genuine partnerships in the protection of democracy, peace, and the rule of law,” Obi said.
He reminded Nigerians that democracy is not merely about who wins, but about whether the people are truly allowed to choose.
“Let Osun demonstrate to Nigeria, and indeed the world, that political competition can be intense without degenerating into violence; that disagreement can exist without hatred; and that power can change hands through ballots rather than blood.
“Let every vote count. Let every voter be protected. Let every legitimate result be respected. And above all, let peace reign in Osun State.
“Nigeria is watching. Africa is watching. The world is watching.
“Let us provide them with a democratic process worthy of the Nigerian people,” Obi said.
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