A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has cautioned against any form of intimidation that could threaten the integrity of the democratic process ahead of the state’s governorship election.
In a statement made available to PUNCH Online on Sunday, Oyintiloye, while speaking with journalists in Osogbo, urged security agencies to take firm action against anyone attempting to disrupt the election.
He also expressed concern over the challenges many eligible voters have encountered while trying to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), describing the process as unnecessarily difficult.
According to the former lawmaker, making PVC collection easier would encourage greater voter participation and allow more citizens to exercise their constitutional right to vote.
Oyintiloye appealed to eligible voters not to be discouraged by the cumbersome collection process, urging those yet to obtain their PVCs to do so and participate peacefully in the election by voting for candidates of their choice.
He further advised residents not to allow reports of intimidation to deter them from taking part in the poll.
“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 also called on security agencies “to remain vigilant and professional in safeguarding lives and property before, during and after the poll.”
He urged law enforcement agencies to ensure that anyone involved in violence, intimidation, or any act capable of disrupting the electoral process is prosecuted.
Speaking on the APC’s chances in the election, Oyintiloye expressed confidence that the party’s governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), would secure victory, citing what he described as widespread acceptance and growing 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.
