Politician and Media Executive, Babatunde Michael Abimboye, has called on Governor Ademola Adeleke and the Imole Campaign Council (TICC) to reduce reliance on assurances from the Federal Government regarding free and fair elections and instead prioritise grassroots empowerment and citizen-led electoral protection mechanisms.

Speaking with news men in Lagos, Abimboye expressed concern over what he described as the “deafening silence” of the Presidency in the face of alleged political violence and insecurity in Osun State.

According to him, the perceived inaction from the centre has emboldened political actors who allegedly invoke “federal might” to intimidate opponents and destabilise the state’s political environment.

The Odeomu born politician cited the unresolved local government crisis in Osun, alleging that attempts to establish parallel councils and forceful occupations of local government secretariats amounted to “siege politics” aimed at weakening the Adeleke administration at the grassroots.

Abimboye also raised concerns over a series of violent incidents across the state, including the killing of Kolade Eluyera in Ikire, reported attacks and shootings in communities such as Ile-Ife, Akoda, Aisu, Owode-Ede, Aregbe, Oke-Fia and Lameco in Osogbo, as well as the reported attempted assassination of the Accord Party Chairman in Osogbo Local Government Area.

He further referenced the death Ajayi Rogba in Esa-Oke last night as well as the death of 14-year-old Olapade Ezekiel describing the incident as tragic and calling for justice for the deceased and other victims of violence in the state.

The concerned citizen also expressed worries over allegations of security lapses and called on law enforcement agencies to conduct transparent investigations into all reported cases of killings and attacks.

Addressing Governor Adeleke directly, Abimboye advised the governor to place greater trust in the people of Osun rather than federal assurances, arguing that the state’s democratic mandate could only be protected through citizen participation, voter education and grassroots organisation.

He recommended the establishment of community-based electoral monitoring structures, the training of party agents and increased investment in civic enlightenment programmes aimed at empowering voters to defend their electoral rights.

“The Imole mandate was given by Osun voters, not by federal patronage. That same mandate can only be protected by Osun people who are prepared, vigilant and empowered,” he stated.

He urged the state government and the Imole Campaign Council to intensify grassroots mobilisation, stand firmly with victims of political violence and continue seeking justice for all affected families.

He maintained that Osun is “a people of pride, courage and faith” and called for collective efforts to protect democracy and ensure peace ahead of future electoral contests in the state.