In their appraisal of the Osun State rerun governorship election, the missions of the United States, European Union and the United Kingdom, who were on the ground to monitor the exercise, said there were incidents of harassment and intimidation of voters.
Reading the missions’ joint report, the US Consul General, Mr John F. Bray, said, “The missions of the United States, European Union and the United Kingdom observed voting at polling stations in Osun today (Thursday). We witnessed what appeared to be incidents of interference and intimidation of voters and have reports of harassment of party monitors, journalists and domestic observers.
We are very concerned by these reports and we will be checking with stakeholders to determine the facts. We call on all stakeholders to remain calm.”
Buhari congratulates Oyetola, commends voters
Meanwhile, President Muhammadu Buhari has congratulated the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Governor-elect of Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola, for winning the keenly contested governorship election.
He extends warm felicitations to the state and national campaign teams that worked assiduously to guarantee the victory at the polls, while commending the outgoing governor, Rauf Aregbesola for eight years of steadfastness and service to his people.
“Thank you Osun State for supporting our good governance agenda by re-electing the APC. I assure you that we will continue to work for the progress and prosperity of the state and the nation,” he said.
The president urges the governor-elect to always remember that the electorate expects unreserved commitment to delivering results that directly impact their lives and families.
President Buhari affirms that the successful election in the state further strengthens the democratic culture in the country, extolling INEC for, once again, making the country proud.
He commends the maturity, loyalty and courage of all contestants in putting in their best to be elected to serve the state, urging them to seek redress in court, where they disagree with the outcome.
Punch/Premium Times
