The Imole Campaign Council of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has petitioned the British High Commission in Abuja over concerns surrounding the upcoming Osun governorship election, urging closer international attention to the electoral process ahead of the August 15 poll.
Leading the delegation to submit the petition on Friday, the council’s spokesperson, Pelumi Olajengbesi, said the election would be a critical measure of Nigeria’s readiness to conduct credible elections ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing journalists after presenting the petition, Olajengbesi said the campaign council informed the British High Commission about the prevailing political situation in Osun State and the importance of ensuring that the election reflects the genuine will of the people.
He described the governorship contest as significant not only for Osun State but also for Nigeria’s democratic reputation, noting that the conduct of the poll would serve as an important benchmark for future elections.
According to him, the Osun governorship election will test the credibility of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Inspector General of Police and other institutions responsible for safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic process.
The campaign council urged the Federal Government, election observers and civil society organisations to ensure that every institution involved in the election remains impartial throughout the process.
Olajengbesi disclosed that the council had also written to the Inspector General of Police regarding reported incidents of violence in parts of Osun State, calling for stronger security measures before election day. He stressed that INEC, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies must discharge their responsibilities professionally and without political bias to guarantee a free, fair and credible election.
Also speaking, Olufemi Franklin of the Coalition of Public Interest Lawyers described the election as a defining moment for Nigeria’s democratic institutions. According to him, the conduct of the poll will test the credibility and integrity of key stakeholders, including INEC and the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force.
Franklin urged the electoral commission to maintain its independence while calling on security agencies to provide a peaceful environment that allows voters to exercise their constitutional rights without intimidation.
He added that Nigeria has matured beyond being described as a young democracy, noting that the outcome and conduct of the Osun governorship election would offer a clear indication of what Nigerians should expect during the 2027 general elections.
The campaign council reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitoring the electoral process and advocating for the protection of voters’ rights as preparations for the governorship election continue.
