Ahead of the November 16, 2024, Local Government Election in Ogun State, the Olu Kemta Orile of Odeda Local Government Area, Oba Dr. Adetokunbo Gbadegeshin Okikiola Tejuosho, has called on residents of the state to shun electoral violence and apathy.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Ayotunde Ogundiran, on Friday, Oba Tejuosho emphasised the need for peace and unity among the electorate, political players, and all other stakeholders involved in the election process.
The monarch particularly appealed to the youth, urging them to participate in the election but to avoid being used as tools for violence.
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He said, “The youth should not see the differences in political parties and individuals as reasons for violence, but should seize the opportunity to vote and elect a befitting candidate who will ensure dividends of democracy at grassroots.”
He also called on the political class to conduct themselves with decorum and sportsmanship saying that, “The political class must also desist from all belligerences and acrimony, they should demonstrate the spirit of sportsmanship as they are the images that those upcoming youths are looking up to. “
In his message to the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), the monarch urged the body to ensure that the election is conducted fairly and without bias.
He stated, “To ensure, not to undermine, as well as to adhere to the oath of office they sworn to in order to ensure the election for the local government across the length and breadth of the state is conducted freely and fairly.”
The royal father also urged all security agencies to be vigilant during and after the election to ensure that law and order are maintained.
