The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party has hailed the electorate for their resilience and commitment to democracy following Saturday’s local government elections.
The party secured all chairmanship and councillorship seats across the 30 local government areas of the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Osun PDP Chairman, Sunday Bisi, lauded voters for their unwavering determination in the face of “needless provocation and harassment” from certain security operatives allegedly working to disrupt the election.
“The peaceful conduct of the poll is a testament to the will of the Osun people for democracy, despite the numerous attempts to intimidate and suppress them,” Bisi stated.
“Before and on Saturday, the will of our people for democracy was greatly tested by anti-democratic elements. From biased opinions to unlawful advice, the rights of Osun people to elect those who administer their affairs at the grassroots came under grave threat,” he added.
According to Bisi, “Everything was put into stopping the election, albeit illegally. It was a challenging moment reminiscent of the dark era of the military, and to our greatest delight, the Osun people rose in asserting their rights to vote and be voted for.
“As a party, we are very proud of the people and honour them as the heroes of democracy.”
The PDP chairman further commended the electorate for resisting intimidation, declaring that their courage had demonstrated to the world that “authoritarianism has no place in our land.”
Condemning Pre-Election Violence
While applauding the voters, Bisi also condemned the violence that marred the days leading up to the election and called on security agencies to arrest one Ademoroti Adeboye, whom he alleged was responsible for the killing of a voter in Ilesa East.
“We are greatly alarmed that the APC thugs wrought violence on innocent voters, leading to the death of a barber in Ilesa East and injuries to many others across the state.
“What happened in Ilesa East LG is reprehensible, and the assailants must not escape justice,” Bisi declared.
