OsunDecides2026: ‘Protect our votes, respect our mandate,’ Adeleke urges Tinubu, security operatives

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has called on President Bola Tinubu and security agencies deployed for the governorship election to protect the integrity of the electoral process as collation of results begins.

Adeleke made the appeal in a post on X on Saturday evening, expressing concern over alleged attempts by some politicians to disrupt or hijack collation centres across the state.

The governor urged Tinubu to direct the heads of security agencies to ensure the safety of residents and protect the votes cast during the election.

“It is imperative that you use your good office to issue a clear warning to the heads of security agencies deployed to protect the good people of Osun State and safeguard the integrity of the electoral process,” he said.

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Adeleke described reports of alleged attempts to disrupt collation centres as “deeply concerning and unacceptable”, particularly given the number of security personnel deployed for the election.

He urged the President to reaffirm his commitment to ensuring that the votes of Osun residents count and that the final result reflects their choice.

“I therefore implore you to reiterate the commitment made to the people of Osun State that their votes will count and that the outcome of this election will reflect their genuine choice,” Adeleke said.

The governor specifically appealed to the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigerian Army and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to remain professional and protect the electoral process.

He also called for the Independent National Electoral Commission to receive the necessary support to complete the collation and declare a credible result.

“The Nigeria Police, DSS, Nigerian Army, NSCDC and other security agencies must strictly adhere to this directive, while INEC must be given every necessary support to conclude the process and deliver a credible and transparent outcome,” he said.

Adeleke commended Osun residents for their turnout during the election and urged them to remain peaceful and law-abiding as collation progresses from polling units to wards and local government areas.

He also called on security agencies to remain vigilant throughout the process, while urging INEC to maintain the highest standards of integrity during collation.

“The people of Osun State have spoken with one voice, and their voices must be heard. Their votes must be protected, and their mandate must be respected,” Adeleke said.

He added that the Federal Government had provided adequate security for the election, expressing confidence in the professionalism of the institutions involved.