Osun poll: Adeleke accuses APC, Oyetola of plans to rig election

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has accused his opponent, Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola, of making statements that suggest plans by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to manipulate Saturday's governorship election. Adeleke's claims were made in a statement released by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

The governor's reaction followed Oyetola's remarks on Saturday, during a meeting with APC stakeholders and supporters in Osun State. Oyetola, who previously served as governor but lost his re-election bid to Adeleke in 2022, encouraged the incumbent to expect defeat in the upcoming election. He also stated that Adeleke's endorsement of President Bola Tinubu for the 2027 presidential election would not prevent the APC from regaining control of the state.

The minister's comments came in response to Adeleke's allegations of APC and Accord Party members facing intimidation ahead of the poll. Oyetola suggested that Adeleke's concerns were a sign that his political influence in the state was waning, adding that the governor's endorsement of Tinubu would not secure his re-election. Adeleke characterized Oyetola's remarks as a "direct threat" to the integrity of the election and called for a transparent and credible voting process, emphasizing that Osun residents should have the freedom to choose their governor.

He noted that Oyetola's statement, including a Yoruba phrase meaning "we will take it from him," indicated that the APC was preparing to undermine the electoral process. Adeleke argued that his endorsement of Tinubu demonstrated his political strength and belief in his ability to garner votes for the President in Osun State's 2027 presidential race.

He also accused Oyetola of damaging the image of President Tinubu and eroding the APC's popularity among Osun voters. The minister's statements, Adeleke argued, amounted to an alarmist warning against a free and fair election. The governor further accused Oyetola of downplaying incidents in which supporters of the Accord Party allegedly faced attacks during the election period.

He accused Oyetola of disregarding the rights of individuals to vote and be voted for. Despite the accusations, Adeleke expressed confidence that voters would resist any attempts to interfere with the electoral process. He stated that Osun people had rejected Oyetola in 2022 and would do so again next Saturday, adding that his party would be re-elected by the voters' choice.