Nigeria election: Osun candidates present plans, governor vows to overcome federal might
Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Candidates in Nigeria's Osun governorship election presented their plans and expressed confidence in winning if the poll is free and fair.
- Governor Ademola Adeleke declared himself a "bulldozer" unafraid of federal power backing his opponent, highlighting his administration's achievements in infrastructure and healthcare.
- Adeleke also refuted claims of militarizing the state, emphasizing his lack of authority over the armed forces and his commitment to good governance.
Candidates vying for the governorship of Nigeria's Osun State engaged in a spirited exchange at the Arise Townhall Meeting in Osogbo, outlining their visions and asserting their chances of victory in the upcoming election. Governor Ademola Adeleke, representing Accord, positioned himself as a formidable force, declaring, "I am a bulldozer. I am talk and do." He expressed defiance against the Federal Government's support for his All Progressives Congress (APC) rival, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, stating that the backing of APC governors would not sway the election's outcome.
I am a bulldozer. I am talk and do. I am not afraid of federal might and governors backing the APC candidate. If they like, they should bring all the governors.
Adeleke highlighted his administration's accomplishments, particularly in infrastructure and healthcare. He asserted that his government had constructed approximately 350 kilometers of roads, with another 160 kilometers underway, and completed numerous long-abandoned projects. "Our work speaks for itself," he stated, pointing to the transformation of the state capital. In healthcare, Adeleke reported the rehabilitation and equipping of around 200 health centers, enhancing their facilities with beds and solar power.
Those governors are my friends. I am a civilised administrator. They wonโt vote; they can only come and dance, and after the election, we will meet.
Addressing accusations of militarizing Osun State, Governor Adeleke firmly denied the claims, emphasizing that he does not possess the authority to deploy armed forces. "I did not militarise Osun. I have no such capacity. I am not the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces," he clarified. He conveyed strong confidence in his re-election bid, believing his administration's tangible achievements across various sectors would resonate with voters.
I did not militarise Osun. I have no such capacity. I am not the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
Originally published by Vanguard in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.