A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress in Osun, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, on Sunday, warned against acts of intimidation capable of undermining the democratic process ahead of the state’s governorship election, calling on security agencies to deal decisively with anyone seeking to disrupt the poll.
According to a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Sunday, Oyintiloye, who spoke with newsmen on Sunday in Osogbo, said the current process has subjected many eligible voters to unnecessary hardship during collection.
He noted that simplifying the PVC collection process will boost voter turnout and enable more citizens to exercise their constitutional rights during the election.
The former lawmaker urged the electorate not to be discouraged by the cumbersome processes, encouraging those yet to collect their PVCs to do so and turn out en masse to vote peacefully for the candidates of their choice.
He also told voters not to submit themselves to fear due to the reports of intimidation.
“No individual or group should be allowed to undermine the democratic process through acts capable of causing panic or discouraging lawful participation in the election”, the statement added.
Oyintiloye urged security agencies “to remain vigilant and professional in safeguarding lives and property before, during and after the poll.”
He urged them to ensure that anyone engaging in violence, intimidation or any act capable of disrupting the electoral process is brought to justice.
On the prospects of the APC in the poll, Oyintiloye expressed optimism that the party’s governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), would emerge victorious, citing widespread acceptance and support across the state.
He said the “goodwill and enthusiasm shown by residents indicated strong confidence in the APC candidate,” adding that the party was on course for victory.