Employment Exercise
By Joseph Oyelami (Super Blessing)
With less than thirty days to the August 15 Osun State Governorship Election, the political atmosphere across the state has become increasingly charged. Political parties, candidates and stakeholders have intensified campaigns, consultations, rallies and grassroots mobilization in a bid to win the confidence of the electorate.
One question, however, remains on the minds of many residents: Who is the most qualified candidate to govern Osun State?
Fourteen political parties are fielding candidates in the election, with the incumbent governor, Senator Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke of the Accord Party, seeking a fresh mandate from the people.
Although all the candidates have been cleared to contest, only a handful have dominated the political landscape through visible campaigns, media engagements and public interactions. Others have maintained relatively low profiles, with little or no presence on radio, television, newspapers or social media, raising questions about their campaign strategies.
According to Thecasternews, Among those making the biggest impact is the incumbent governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, whose administration is relying on its record in office while seeking re-election. The APC candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, has also intensified statewide consultations and campaign activities.
The PRP candidate, Dr. Saliu Oyelami (Orisunlagba), has continued to attract public attention through issue-based campaigns, advocating what he describes as true democracy and promising an inclusive style of governance. Similarly, the AAC candidate, Dr. Olajide Esan, has maintained an active media presence, featuring regularly on broadcast and print platforms while presenting his vision for the state.
The ADC candidate, Najeem Salam, has consistently referenced the political philosophy of the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo, combining that message with extensive grassroots mobilization. The NNPP candidate, Taofeek Adeleke, has also continued to engage voters across different parts of the state.
The relative silence of several other candidates has generated debate among political observers. Many residents wonder why some aspirants/candidates have not aggressively presented their manifestos or embarked on visible campaigns. While some analysts believe they may be relying on alternative campaign strategies, others argue that effective voter engagement requires consistent public visibility.
Beyond campaign activities, stakeholders continue to focus attention on issues capable of influencing the credibility of the election.
It would be recalled that Governorship candidates have endorsed the Osun Peace Summit, while civil society groups have continued to preach peaceful participation before, during and after the poll.
Concerns over vote buying and voter apathy remain major issues. Political analysts believe both challenges could significantly affect voter turnout and public confidence in the electoral process if not properly addressed.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured voters that the outcome of the August 15 election will reflect the will of the people. The electoral body has also reiterated its commitment to reducing voter apathy and ensuring a transparent electoral process.
However, many eligible voters have appealed to INEC to expedite the distribution of their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), insisting that thousands are yet to receive their cards despite completing registration, a situation they fear could disenfranchise them.
Traditional institutions have also joined the call for peaceful conduct. The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has urged politicians and their supporters to avoid violence before, during and after the election, warning that no political ambition is worth the loss of human lives.
As the election draws closer, security agencies have also been urged to remain professional, impartial and proactive by arresting anyone attempting to disrupt the peace or undermine the electoral process.
Osun State has long been celebrated for its Omoluabi values of integrity, respect and peaceful coexistence. Citizens, especially youths, are therefore encouraged to reject violence, political thuggery and all forms of electoral malpractice.
Ultimately, the responsibility rests with the electorate. Beyond campaign promises and political slogans, voters are expected to critically assess the character, competence, experience and programmes of every candidate before casting their votes on August 15.
The people of Osun now have a historic opportunity to determine the future of the state through peaceful, credible and informed participation. Whatever the outcome, the greatest victory will be the conduct of a free, fair and violence-free election that truly reflects the will of the people.
