By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State House of Assembly has declared that it will resist any attempt to manipulate the electoral process, insisting on a free, fair, and credible governorship election in the state.
Speaking at a press conference, the lawmakers said their position was driven by a responsibility to defend democracy, protect institutional integrity, and safeguard the will of the people.
The Assembly raised concerns over the recent redeployment of the Resident Electoral Commissioner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), as well as reports of planned redeployments involving other key officials, including Administrative Secretaries, Electoral Officers, Assistant Electoral Officers, and ICT personnel.
According to the lawmakers, the pattern of these developments suggests a deliberate attempt to influence the electoral process in Osun State.
They noted that similar widespread redeployments have not occurred in Ekiti State, which precedes Osun in the electoral calendar, raising questions about the motive behind the move
The Assembly further alleged that the situation may be linked to the influence of Blue Economy minister Gboyega Oyetola.
It stressed that no administrative changes or deployment of officials would override the will of the people, describing Osun residents as politically conscious and determined to ensure their votes count.
The lawmakers also disclosed reports of alleged plans to compromise the electoral process in parts of the state, particularly in the Ife/Ijesa Senatorial District, through the use of individuals affiliated with the All Progressives Congress (APC) in sensitive roles such as returning officers and supervisors.
Describing such developments as unacceptable, the Assembly warned that any attempt to undermine the credibility of the election would be firmly resisted.
It called on all officials deployed by INEC to adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and electoral laws, maintaining that anything short of a credible election would not be tolerated.
The Assembly also appealed to the international community, development partners, and election observers to closely monitor developments in Osun State.
Reaffirming its stance, the lawmakers emphasized that the people of Osun remain vigilant and committed to democratic values, warning that any action capable of compromising the integrity of the electoral process would be rejected.
