IBADAN—GOVERNORSHIP candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Oyo State, Senator Teslim Kolawole Folarin, has called on all politicians and major players of the democratic process to eschew violence and avoid mudslinging, if the primary motive of contesting was to serve the people.

Folarin, in a statement by his Director of Media and Strategy, Victor Oluwadamilare, said “We must do nothing to promote violence and refrain ourselves from encouraging thuggery and hooliganism.

“As we all eagerly await the new year 2015, all hands must be on deck to ensure an hitch- free election and smooth transition”, no individual ambition should be allowed to plunge Oyo State into a needless crisis, because when two elephants fight, it is the grasses that suffer.

”In everything we do or say, we should consider our people’s general interest and well being, since development only thrives in a peaceful and serene environment”.

Folarin, who said he did not subscribe to politics of life and death, advised youths who are being used as political thugs by wicked and conscienceless politicians for their inordinate ambitions, to desist and look for something meaningful to do instead of toying with their precious lives.

Since no politician will use their children as thugs, Folarin wondered why other people’s children should be used as sacrificial lambs.

Meanwhile, over 10,000 members of the Peoples Democratic Party from Ibadan South East and South West local government areas of Oyo State, led by Alhaji Rabiu Anisere on Monday, stormed Folarin’s house to pledge their unflinching support for the PDP standard bearer.

They said they formerly belonged to the camps of Jumoke Akinjide, the FCT Minister of State and former deputy governor of the state, Taofeek Arapaja.