On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
“Ignore the Fear Campaign, Victory Is Certain” — Adeleke Exudes Confidence Ahead of August 15 Governorship Poll
As political activities intensify ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke has dismissed growing concerns over alleged plans to manipulate the electoral process, assuring residents that the will of the people will prevail at the polls.
The governor, while reacting to widespread speculation surrounding election rigging, political intimidation, and possible violence, declared that his camp remains confident of securing victory through the ballot box.
“We shall win convincingly and we shall be declared winner with wide margins,” the governor stated, urging citizens not to be distracted by what he described as deliberate scaremongering designed to create anxiety among voters.
Adeleke's remarks come amid heightened political tension and intense campaign activities across the state, with various stakeholders expressing concerns about the conduct of the election and the potential influence of powerful political interests.
However, the governor insisted that democratic institutions, electoral safeguards, and the vigilance of the electorate would ensure a transparent process.
According to him, residents of the state are determined to defend their constitutional right to freely elect leaders of their choice, stressing that no individual or institution should contemplate undermining the electoral process.
“No one, I repeat, no one can deny Osun people their legitimate rights to choose their leaders,” he declared.
The governor further argued that Osun's historical significance within the Yoruba nation and its strategic place in the nation's political landscape make any attempt to destabilize the state politically both risky and unacceptable.
“We are the cradle of the Yoruba nation. We are the ancestral state of Mr President. No security or electoral official will dare attempt to set Osun State on fire. No federal official will contemplate rigging the forthcoming elections in Osun State,” he said.
Adeleke also disclosed that mechanisms have already been activated to monitor developments before, during, and after the election, emphasizing that his administration and supporters are not leaving anything to chance.
"The governor's comments may be interpreted by the public as both a reassurance to supporters and a warning against any perceived effort to interfere with the electoral process."
Beyond election security, Adeleke used the opportunity to broaden his political outreach by extending an invitation to politicians across party divides to align with what he described as a growing movement for development and good governance in Osun State.
Against the backdrop of reported divisions within the state's major opposition camp, the governor presented his political platform as an inclusive coalition driven by developmental goals rather than partisan interests.
“Our candidature is beyond party lines. Ours is a pan-Osun movement, a rainbow coalition, to ensure the final exit of the state from under-development,” he said.
Declaring that the Accord platform remains open to new entrants, Adeleke encouraged politicians, community leaders, and other stakeholders to join forces with him ahead of the crucial election.
“It is better to abandon a sinking ship and join the light which my candidature represents,” the governor remarked.
As the countdown to August 15 continues, Adeleke's message signals a campaign strategy focused on projecting confidence, mobilizing supporters, and countering narratives of fear and uncertainty that often accompany high-stakes elections.
Whether that confidence translates into electoral success will ultimately be determined by Osun voters when they head to the polls.
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