Osun guber: Peter Obi urges INEC, security agencies to remain neutral

By Precious Mark

The presidential candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, has called on electoral authorities, security agencies, and political actors to ensure neutrality, peace, and transparency in the upcoming Osun State governorship election.

Addressing key stakeholders on Thursday, the NDC flagbearer stressed that the electorate in Osun State must be allowed to choose their leaders freely, safely, and without fear or external intimidation.

“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.

Addressing security agencies directly, the former governor stressed that their primary loyalty must remain with the Constitution and the protection of citizens across all political divides.

“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 stated.

Obi also called on electoral authorities to safeguard the integrity of the voting exercise at every stage to reinforce public trust.

“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.

Appealing for calm among residents and political actors, Obi cautioned against importing violence or political desperation into the state, urging leaders to prioritize peace over ambition.

“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,” Obi urged.

“Let us remember that democracy is not merely about who wins. Democracy is about whether the people are truly allowed to choose,” he added.

He further called on the international community, diplomatic missions, and election monitoring bodies to closely observe the Osun proceedings to uphold democratic standards.