A socio-political group, Osun Dynamic Winner Group, has urged residents of Osun State to vote wisely in the forthcoming governorship election and resist attempts by politicians to manipulate or use them for selfish political interests.
The group also warned youths and residents against engaging in political violence, thuggery and vote-selling during the electioneering period, stressing that the future of the state should not be sacrificed for temporary financial gains.
In a statement signed by its chairman, Kayode Ogundare the group said the coming election would play a significant role in determining the future development and stability of Osun State.
According to the group, residents must carefully assess candidates based on competence, credibility, character and their capacity to deliver good governance rather than allowing themselves to be deceived by political propaganda and inducements.
The statement noted that many politicians often remember the electorate only during elections, urging residents to prioritise leaders with clear developmental agendas capable of improving the economy, education, healthcare, infrastructure and youth empowerment in the state.
“We want to appeal to the people of Osun State to choose wisely in the coming election and avoid being used by desperate politicians for violence and political manipulation,” the statement read.
“The future of our state is more important than temporary gifts, money or political promises that may never be fulfilled after the election,” it added.
The group further advised youths across the state not to allow themselves to be recruited as political thugs or instruments of violence by any politician or political party.
According to the statement, political violence only destroys communities, threatens peaceful coexistence and affects innocent residents who depend on stability for their daily businesses and livelihoods.
“No politician’s ambition is worth the blood of any resident of Osun State. Young people should not allow themselves to be used to cause chaos, violence or unrest during the election period,” the group stated.
Osun Dynamic Winner Group also cautioned residents against selling their votes, describing vote-buying as one of the major factors responsible for poor governance and lack of accountability in the country.
The group stressed that accepting money in exchange for votes often empowers incompetent leaders who later abandon the people after assuming office.
“When people sell their votes, they indirectly sell their future and weaken democracy. Leaders who buy votes may not feel accountable to the people after getting into power,” the statement noted.
The group, however, called on security agencies, electoral officials and community leaders to ensure a peaceful, free and credible election across the state.
It also urged politicians to focus on issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory statements capable of creating tension before, during and after the governorship election.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peaceful democratic participation and responsible leadership in Osun State.
