Osun: Aregbesola Laments Electoral Violence, Vows to Punish Perpetrators

Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola, has lamented the various crises and violence that characterised the last general election in the state.

The governor, who spoke during a state broadcast in Osogbo, regretted that some candidates, in their attempt to manipulate or win the election, triggered the subsequent violence and vowed that perpetrators would be dealt with accordingly.

He said, “My heartfelt condolences go to the bereaved. We are building a new and peaceful nation, characterised by law and order, where every life is sacred and safety of lives and property is guaranteed.

“This new nation has no place for violence, brigandage, cheating, injustice and impunity. More importantly, no one will get into any elective office through cheating, violence, intimidation, thuggery and manipulation”, he added.

While commending the people for voting in the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidates, Aregbesola said Osun was on the path to unstoppable greatness.

“The pattern, shape and the results were indications of your diligent planting and nurturing of the tree of democracy in the past 16 years; and the buds of its early fruits.

“Election is now assuming its true definition as a political empowerment for the people. With your voter’s card, you now determine those who rule over you and make laws for the government of the country and your state.

“This is the most critical first test of democracy, since 1999, a free and fair election, in which the people chose their leaders, and you have passed in flying colours.

“I congratulate you for this historic achievement. What we need to do now, is to guard it jealously and build on this solid foundation, the superstructure of productivity, development, security and life more abundant for all”, he added.