Radio stations cancel Osun gov debate over security report

A planned Osun State governorship debate was abruptly canceled Saturday, with organizers citing security concerns and the unwillingness of key candidates to participate. The event, jointly organized by Uniq FM, Rave FM, Diamond FM, and Fresh FM, was intended to provide a platform for candidates to present their visions for the state.

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The debate, jointly organised by Uniq FM, Rave FM, Diamond FM, and Fresh FM, was expected to feature the governorship candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, and the African Action Congress (AAC).

However, organizers announced the cancellation shortly before it was to begin, stating that unfavorable security reports necessitated the decision. They emphasized that the cancellation was made in the interest of public safety, aiming to prevent any potential risks to participants, guests, media personnel, and the general public. Reports of unrest in parts of Osun State had already raised concerns about the security situation.

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The decision was unanimously reached following unfavourable security reports and the reluctance of some of the leading governorship candidates to participate under the prevailing circumstances.

Only the African Action Congress candidate, Olajide Esan, was present at the venue. Following the cancellation, Esan took the stage and addressed the audience, later issuing a statement condemning the boycott by the All Progressives Congress, African Democratic Congress, and Accord Party candidates. He argued that their absence demonstrated a lack of courage and preparedness to govern the state and face public scrutiny.

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The African Action Congress (AAC), Osun State Chapter, strongly condemns the decision of the gubernatorial candidates of the APC, Accord Party, and ADC to boycott today’s governorship debate organised by reputable media organisations.