Osun poll: APC chieftain warns against violence, sell-out

A senior member of the All Progressives Congress, Tolu Bankole, has cautioned party members and supporters in Osun State to ensure victory for the party's gubernatorial candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, while explicitly warning against violence, internal divisions, and compromising on principles ahead of the upcoming election. The call for unity and non-violence came in a statement issued by Bankole in Abuja on Thursday, as heightened security preparations were underway across the Osun State.

Thousands of security personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Nigerian Army, and other agencies were deployed in the state to maintain order and ensure a free, fair, and credible electoral process. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is scheduled to conduct the gubernatorial poll on Saturday, with Oyebamiji and other candidates vying for the governorship position.

Bankole urged all APC members, leaders, and supporters to rally behind Oyebamiji, describing him as the "clear choice" for the party. He emphasized the importance of total commitment, mobilization, and unity, stating that the APC at the national level is dedicated to securing Oyebamiji's victory. Bankole also reiterated that no form of blackmauling, gang-up, or intimidation would prevent the candidate from becoming the next governor of Osun State.

He cautioned party members against engaging in violence, stressing the need for a peaceful electoral process. Bankole stressed that this election is critical for the party and urged all stakeholders to avoid division, as it is a luxury they cannot afford. With just 48 hours left before the poll, security agencies in Osun State have intensified their operations, with over 25,310 personnel, including police, NSCDC operatives, and EFCC officials, deployed across major roads, streets, and strategic locations to prevent any electoral malpractice.