Osun governorship election cannot be rigged – Adeleke

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, on Monday, declared that next month’s governorship election in the State cannot be rigged or stolen, insisting that the votes of the people would determine the outcome of the poll.

Speaking at the Palace of Oba Adedokun Abolarin, the Orangun of Oke Ila in Ifedayo Local Government Area, the governor said the massive turnout of residents during his campaign tour across the state was an indication that the people had resolved to defend their votes on August 15, 2026.

In a statement issued by Olawale Rasheed, his Spokesperson, Governor Adeleke said: “I heard some politicians vowing to steal the votes. Where and how? Osun votes are untouchable. This is Osun State, the heart of the Yoruba nation. Nobody can rig us out here.

“We are going round the state. The people are trooping out. The people’s votes will be defended. Their will on August 15 will become a reality.”

He noted that the electorate remain resolute despite reports of intimidation and political tension, stressing that his administration was enjoying widespread support across the state.

“We are getting the votes; they are chasing motor parks. They are shooting at the people. Osun people are not scared. All these attacks and war mongering have only hardened our people. Osun people are not cowards. They will vote and defend their votes.

“Our records speak for us; their records in office continue to hunt them. We have transformed our major towns, and we are moving to upgrade our rural areas,” the governor said.

Oba Abolarin, who commended the governor for what he described as widespread development across the state, said the administration had lived up to the chieftaincy title of “Soludero of Oke Ila” conferred on Adeleke.

The monarch also urged the governor to consider establishing tourism and sporting facilities in Ifedayo, saying the area’s landscape was suitable for a sports academy, mountain hiking and tourism resorts.

Addressing the rally, Adeleke cautioned residents against selling their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) or their votes and urged them to remain vigilant during the election.

“All rumours of rigging, violence and manipulation are mere fear mongering. We will vote and we will win this election,” he told the gathering.