The Austrian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Peter Guschelbauer, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, during the coutesy visit. Photo: Osun State Government
The European Union Election Observation Mission will monitor the forthcoming Osun State governorship election as part of its commitment to promoting credible democratic processes, the Austrian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Peter Guschelbauer, has said.
Guschelbauer disclosed this during a courtesy visit to Governor Ademola Adeleke at the Government House, Osogbo, over the weekend, according to a statement issued on Sunday by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.
This is just as the governor said his government remained committed to free and fair election.
The ambassador said the EU remained committed to strengthening democratic institutions by observing elections and encouraging compliance with electoral laws and democratic principles.
He noted that the union expected the Osun governorship election to be conducted in accordance with Nigeria’s electoral laws, describing the poll as an important precursor to the 2027 general elections.
Guschelbauer, who was accompanied by the embassy’s political adviser, commended Adeleke’s administration for what he described as its commitment to good governance and urged political stakeholders to conduct themselves peacefully in the interest of political stability and national development.
Highlighting the longstanding cultural ties between Austria and Osun State, the ambassador recalled the historical connection between his country and the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove.
He expressed Austria’s willingness to deepen cooperation with the state in the areas of cultural preservation, tourism and investment through stronger partnerships with Austrian businesses.
Responding, Adeleke appealed to the European Union to pay special attention to the forthcoming governorship election, stressing the importance of international observation in enhancing the credibility of the electoral process.
“The observer intervention of the European Union will strengthen compliance with democratic practices and the Electoral Act for free and fair polls.
“Our government remains committed to free and fair elections as well as creating an enabling environment for investors and development partners. Osun State offers immense opportunities in agriculture, renewable energy, education, technology, mining and vocational development.
“We are ready to work with your country and Austrian businesses in exploring these opportunities for mutual growth and prosperity,” the governor said.
The statement also disclosed that a delegation from the British High Commission is expected to visit Osun State this week as part of its pre-election engagement with stakeholders ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
The planned visits by the British delegation and the expected EU observers come amid heightened political activities in the state ahead of the poll.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Green Apple HK Nigeria Limited to deploy electric vehicles for use by government agencies, with plans to subsequently expand the initiative to the public transportation sector.
Adeleke disclosed this while unveiling the first batch of electric motorcycles under the Imole Electric Motorbikes Initiative, describing the agreement as a major milestone in the state’s drive towards sustainable transportation.
The governor commended the lead partner of Green Apple HK Nigeria Limited, Ibukun Demuren, for supporting the initiative, noting that electric mobility would reduce transportation costs and promote environmental sustainability.
“Very soon, Osun will see tricycles running on electricity. You will see cars running on electricity.
“You will see buses running on electricity, right here in Osun State. This is what we are building for you: a future where you spend less on fuel, and keep more for your family, your children, and your business,” Adeleke said.
The Punch
