Don’t sell your votes, Oyebamiji begs Osun voters

Bola Oyebamiji, the governorship candidate for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Nigeria, has made a direct appeal to the electorate, urging them not to commercialize their votes in the upcoming August 15 election. Speaking in Osogbo at a meeting with leaders and members of the Ansar-u-Deen Society, Oyebamiji stressed the importance of using Permanent Voters' Cards (PVCs) wisely to elect a capable leader.

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The PVC is an instrument that confers right on each person to have a say in deciding who leads or preside over their affairs for a stipulated period. I am appealing to our people not to commercialise their PVC but use it wisely to vote for someone that has capacity and potential to lead appropriately.

Oyebamiji, who previously served as the Osun State Commissioner for Finance, expressed his commitment to steering the state toward growth and development if elected. He mentioned that his plans are detailed in a document that will guide his actions as governor. He emphasized that the PVC is a powerful tool that grants citizens the right to choose their leaders and called on the people of Osun to vote for someone with the "capacity and potential to lead appropriately."

Beyond the call to vote responsibly, Oyebamiji also implored the Ansar-u-Deen Society and religious leaders to pray for peace in the state. He urged residents and politicians alike to ensure a peaceful electoral process, stating, "Nobody should be killed for the sake election." He stressed that peace is essential for voters to participate freely and cast their ballots for the progress and development of Osun State.

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I urged you as congregation, especially religious leaders to continue to pray for peace and talk to our people to allow peace reign before and after the election in the State, nobody should be killed for the sake election.

In response, Hafiz Akande, the Secretary of the Ansar-u-Deen Society in Osun State, described Oyebamiji as a "listening leader, a devoted family man, and a practicing Muslim who operates with the deep fear of Allah." Akande clarified that while the Society remains apolitical, it supports its members who aspire to public office, viewing leadership as a sacred trust from God. The Society believes in supporting members who demonstrate sincerity and competence in their pursuit of governance.

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Let me state clearly that as a corporate body, ADS remains non-partisan. However, the Society will never rebuke, sideline, or abandon our own who show an active interest in governance.