The Yoruba Youth Council (YYC), the apex body representing indigenous youth groups across South-West Nigeria, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and all stakeholders involved in Saturday’s Osun State governorship election to ensure a free, fair, transparent and credible poll.
In a statement signed by the President of the Council, Mogaji Alawode Rahmon Akintunde, the YYC urged INEC and security agencies to discharge their responsibilities professionally, impartially and in accordance with the provisions of the law.
The Council also appealed to political parties, candidates, their supporters and the electorate to shun violence, intimidation, vote-buying and other acts capable of undermining the peaceful conduct of the election.
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According to the Council, the people of Osun State deserve an election in which every eligible voter can freely exercise their constitutional right without fear or interference.
The YYC said it was particularly important for all stakeholders to place the peace and development of Osun State above political interests, stressing that democracy can only thrive when the will of the people is respected.
“We call on INEC, the security agencies, political parties, candidates and all stakeholders to conduct themselves with fairness, professionalism and patriotism. The people’s votes must count, and the outcome must reflect the genuine will of the electorate,” the Council stated.
The Yoruba Youth Council further urged youths across Osun State to reject violence and refuse to be used as instruments of political thuggery, reminding them that the future of the state belongs to them.
The Council prayed for God’s intervention, protection and guidance before, during and after the election, expressing hope that the exercise would end peacefully and produce a result that will be accepted by the people.
The YYC also congratulated the people of Osun State in advance for their commitment to democratic participation and urged all stakeholders to embrace peace regardless of the outcome.
