By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

As political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle in Ogun State, the State’s Ombudsman and Federal Commissioner of the Public Complaints Commission, Morakinyo OgoOluwa Akinleye, has called on political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns and maintain peace throughout the process.

Akinleye, in a statement issued in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital, urged aspirants, candidates, party leaders and supporters across political parties to uphold the values of civility, tolerance and respect for democratic principles as the state prepares for another electoral season.

According to him, Ogun State has historically distinguished itself as a centre of intellectualism, progressive politics and political maturity within the country, stressing that stakeholders must sustain the tradition by conducting campaigns anchored on ideas rather than hostility.

“Ogun State has long been recognised as a beacon of intellectualism and progressive thought. From the legacies of revered statesmen to the present democratic dispensation, our state has consistently demonstrated that politics can be conducted with decorum, substance and respect for the rule of law,” he said.

The ombudsman, whose office is responsible for promoting social justice, peace, stability and administrative fairness, advised political aspirants to centre their campaigns on concrete policy alternatives and practical development strategies.

He listed key areas that should dominate campaign discourse to include economic growth strategies, youth empowerment and employment, security and community safety, as well as improvements in education, healthcare and infrastructure.

He also emphasised the need for fiscal responsibility and transparency in governance.

Akinleye warned against campaigns driven by personal attacks, misinformation and divisive rhetoric, noting that such tactics undermine public confidence and weaken democratic institutions.

“The electorate of Ogun State deserves campaigns built on ideas, not insults; on programmes, not propaganda; and on vision, not violence,” he stated.

He further cautioned against ethnic or sub-ethnic sentiments in political mobilisation, urging candidates to promote inclusive campaigns that reflect the diverse interests of the people.

The commissioner also appealed to party supporters and political mobilisers to exercise restraint and discipline during the campaign period.

“Political passion must never degenerate into hostility. Violence, intimidation, thuggery, vote-buying and inflammatory conduct undermine not only the electoral process but also the future of our state,” he warned.

He urged all stakeholders to respect electoral laws and guidelines, avoid hate speech, reject violence in all forms, promote tolerance across party lines and uphold the sanctity of the ballot.

According to him, the strength of any democracy is determined not only by the conduct of elections but also by the character and conduct of those who participate in them.

“Our collective goal must be to produce quality elected representatives — leaders chosen on merit, competence, integrity and vision — who will advance the development, unity and prosperity of Ogun State,” Akinleye said.

He expressed optimism that with collective commitment from political leaders, supporters and citizens, the state would once again demonstrate that it remains a model for peaceful democratic transitions in Nigeria.