The Imole Campaign Council has alleged that many voters in Osun State are determined to reject the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the August 15 governorship election over what it described as rising political intimidation and violence across the state.

In a statement issued on Sunday by its spokesman, Pelumi Olajengbesi, the council claimed feedback from its engagements with residents indicated growing support for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election.

The council alleged that recent political activities linked to the opposition had been characterised by intimidation, violent attacks and other security concerns, which it said had heightened fears in parts of the state.

The campaign council contrasted the allegations with what it described as the achievements of the Adeleke administration, including prompt payment of workers’ salaries, infrastructure development, revitalisation of public institutions and welfare programmes.

It partly reads, “The people of Osun have witnessed the difference between politics built on service and politics sustained by intimidation. Under the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke, workers receive their salaries promptly, infrastructure is being modernised, public institutions are being revitalised, and investments are being made in the welfare of the people. Osun voters have repeatedly made it clear that they have no desire to return to an era characterised by oppression, insecurity, and institutional decline.”

“We therefore call on the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of the Department of State Services, and all other relevant security agencies to remain steadfast in their constitutional responsibility of protecting the lives and democratic rights of the people by ensuring a peaceful, free, fair, and credible governorship election in Osun State.

“We also urge security agencies to identify, dismantle, and prosecute all criminal networks involved in political violence, regardless of the political interests they serve. Democracy can only flourish where the rule of law prevails and those who seek to undermine the electoral process are held accountable,” it added.

According to the council, the people of Osun deserve an election that reflects their freely expressed will without fear, violence or coercion. It expressed confidence that voters would choose “peace, progress and continuity” in the August 15 governorship election.