My dear people of Osun State,
I write today with a heavy heart to commiserate with all Osun citizens who have suffered injuries, losses, and trauma as a result of the recent wave of political violence witnessed across different parts of our dear state.
My thoughts and prayers are with the victims, their families, and loved ones. I pray that God grants speedy recovery to those who sustained injuries and comfort to all who have been affected by these unfortunate incidents.
As a democrat, I firmly believe in the sanctity of the ballot box and the principle of one-man-one-vote.
Democracy is a contest of ideas, vision and service to the people. There is no political office, including the office of Governor, that is worth the blood of any human being. No ambition is greater than the value of human life, and no electoral victory can justify violence against fellow citizens.
I am deeply disturbed by reports of attacks on members and supporters of our party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in different parts of Osun State.
In Owode-Ede, supporters of our party were attacked yesterday, while buses belonging to our campaign were vandalized and damaged.
Similarly, in Ifeland, APC members participating in a peaceful Walk-to-Live rally were attacked by hoodlums said to be associated with the ruling government. Reports indicate that several participants sustained injuries during the incident.
In Osogbo, our members and supporters were also subjected to physical assaults, while there are claims that some individuals were shot at during the attacks. The full extent of the injuries and any possible fatalities has not been independently verified, but every report of violence against innocent citizens is deeply troubling and unacceptable.
I condemn all forms of political violence, regardless of who the perpetrators may be. Those who seek power through intimidation, fear, and lawlessness have no place in our democratic society.
The primary responsibility of government is the protection of lives and property. Unfortunately, many citizens of Osun State today feel increasingly vulnerable and insecure. The growing atmosphere of intimidation, violence, and political intolerance should concern every lover of democracy and every stakeholder in the future of Osun State.
By the grace of Almighty God and through the overwhelming support of the good people of Osun State, when I am entrusted with the responsibility of leading our state, the safety and security of our people will be a top priority of my administration. We shall build a state where citizens can freely exercise their democratic rights without fear of harassment, intimidation, or violence.
My administration will maintain zero tolerance for criminality. We shall not harbour criminals, encourage lawlessness, or look the other way while criminal elements operate under political protection as we currently have it in the state. The rule of law shall prevail, and all citizens shall be equal before the law.
I urge our people to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and steadfast in their commitment to democracy. Let us not respond to provocation with violence. Let us continue to place our faith in God and in the power of the ballot.
The current season of political brigandage, intolerance, and governance on auto-pilot shall not endure forever. Relief is on the horizon.
Beginning from November 27, by the grace of God and with the support of the people, a truly progressive government will be ushered in, one that will place the welfare, security, prosperity, and peace of Osun people above every other consideration.
Together, we shall restore confidence in government, strengthen our democratic institutions, and return Osun State to the path of progress and shared prosperity.
May God bless Osun State and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.