Obi Calls for Peace Ahead of Osun Election

Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress, has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, and other key players to ensure a peaceful and fair governorship election in Osun State.

Obi made this request in a statement posted on X on Thursday, just before Saturday's governorship election.

He stated that Osun belongs to its people. He urged all institutions, political figures, the diplomatic community, international observers, and others to maintain neutrality, professionalism, and restraint.

"Osun belongs to its people. Therefore, I call on the Independent National Electoral Commission, security agencies, political parties, candidates, government institutions, civil society organisations, religious and traditional leaders, the media, and every stakeholder to act with the highest degree of neutrality, professionalism, and restraint," Obi said.

The former governor of Anambra State emphasized that residents should be allowed to vote freely without fear.

"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," he added.

Obi urged the people of Osun not to let political competition cause divisions or violence in their communities.

"To those within Osun State, I appeal for peace. Do not allow politicians to turn your 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.

He also warned politicians, supporters, influencers, and financiers from outside the state not to bring in violence and intimidation.

"To those outside Osun, politicians, supporters, influencers, and financiers, I urge you to exercise restraint. Do not import violence, intimidation, or desperation into a state whose people have the constitutional right to choose their leaders peacefully," Obi said.

Regarding security agencies, the former presidential candidate stated that their loyalty should be to the country and the Constitution, not to political interests.

"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," he said.

Obi also called on INEC to maintain the integrity of the election from the beginning through voting, counting, and announcing results.

"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," he added.

He asked the international community, diplomatic missions, and election observers to keep a close watch on the election. His belief is that their presence can boost public trust in the democratic process.

"Democracy is not merely about who wins. Democracy is about whether the people are truly allowed to choose," Obi said.

He urged all political actors and residents to make sure the election does not lead to violence.

"Let Osun show Nigeria and the world that political competition can be intense without leading to violence; that disagreement can exist without hatred; and that power can change hands through votes instead of blood," he said.

Obi added, "Let every vote count. Let every voter be protected. Let every legitimate result be respected. And above all, let peace reign in Osun State."

He concluded, "Nigeria is watching. Africa is watching. The world is watching. Let us provide them with a democratic process worthy of the Nigerian people. A new Nigeria is possible."