Osun poll: CSO urges residents to protect votes, prevent intimidation

As the governorship election in Osun State approached, the Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room issued a strong call to residents, urging them to exercise their civic duty and protect their votes from intimidation. The group emphasized that every eligible voter possesses a constitutional right to participate freely in the election without facing harassment or violence.

Mr. Yinusa Ya’u, the convener of the Situation Room, addressed journalists, stressing the need for security agencies to guarantee voters' safety as they travel to polling units, cast their ballots, and return home. He specifically called for heightened attention to women, persons with disabilities, and older individuals, who may be disproportionately affected by insecurity. The group implored citizens not to let political actors or thugs disenfranchise them.

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The rights of voters must be protected. Every eligible voter in Osun State has a constitutional right to participate freely in the election without intimidation, harassment or violence.

The Situation Room expressed deep concern over the heightened political tensions preceding the election, citing reports of politically motivated violence, clashes between political actors, intimidation, and hostile rhetoric. These concerns are amplified by the Independent National Electoral Commission's identification of 385 election flashpoints and the designation of 13 local government areas as high-risk zones by partner organizations. The group appealed to security agencies to remain vigilant, apprehend offenders involved in vote-buying, and ensure the integrity of the electoral process.

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The Situation Room calls on the citizens of Osun State not to allow political actors, thugs or purveyors of disinformation to deprive them of their democratic rights.