Afrobeat superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, has called on political parties, candidates and residents of Osun State to ensure a peaceful conduct of the August 15 governorship election.
Davido, the Chairman of the Imole Youth Mobilisation Campaign Team, made the appeal while addressing newsmen at Imole House, Osogbo, where he urged all stakeholders to put the interest and future of the state above political ambitions.
The music star said the tension and emotions surrounding the election should not be allowed to degenerate into violence, stressing that no political ambition was worth the life of any Osun resident.
He called on political actors and their supporters to reject violence, provocation and destruction before, during and after the election.
He said, “I understand the tension and emotions surrounding this election, but I urge everyone to remain calm. No political ambition, disagreement, or election is worth the life of an Osun son or daughter. Let us reject violence, intimidation, provocation, and destruction.
“To every person in Osun, come out and exercise your right to vote. Do not be afraid or intimidated. Your vote is your voice and your choice must be respected. Let us show the world that Osun people are peaceful, courageous and determined to build a better future for the state.
“To our daddy from Imo State, I say this with respect. I have heard rumors suggesting that there are moves to interfere in the Osun election or use the state as a political battleground to prove a point. I do not present these claims as facts, but I appeal to you to use your influence to promote peace and allow the people of Osun choose their candidate freely.
“We have mutual connections, and I have a deep personal connection to Imo State, my wife, Chioma is from the state which makes this appeal even more sincere. Please, let Osun remain peaceful, allow democracy take its course and let the people decide.
“Dear contestants, in the Osun State, this is your opportunity to contest for the governorship, but political opportunities come and go. Whatever the outcome is, please do not allow political ambition to put the lives and future of Osun people at risk. I appeal to you, your supporters and the entire political parties structure, let the people come out freely and peacefully to vote for the candidate of their choice.
“If they choose you, let the victory be through their votes. If they choose someone else, let their decision be respected.
“Politics is temporary, but Osun will remain. No political victory is worth violence, destruction or the loss of a single life.
“To everyone in Osun, please come out, vote peacefully, reject intimidation and let your voice be heard. Osun is ours, the future is ours and let us peace lead the way.”
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