Ooni appeals for peace as Osun governorship election approaches

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, on Thursday urged politicians and their supporters to shun violence ahead of the August 15 Osun governorship election, warning against any form of bloodshed.

Oba Adeyeye made the appeal while receiving the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Oyebamiji, and party leaders at his palace in Ile-Ife.

“There should be no bloodshed in Osun. Politics should be conducted peacefully and smoothly. I beg you with my crown. On election day, vote peacefully. We do not want bloodshed. Osun people are known for their virtues; let us set a good example. Let everything be peaceful.

“I do not want anyone carrying guns. The state is greater than any one of us. Politics will come and go, but Osun will remain,” the monarch said.

Oba Adeyeye also commended President Bola Tinubu for what he described as his efforts, especially in tackling insecurity and preventing bandits from invading Yorubaland, praying for divine guidance for the president in steering the affairs of the country.

He further praised the reconciliation efforts within the APC, urging party leaders and members to remain united.

The monarch specifically encouraged the deputy governorship candidate, Kayode Adereti, not to disappoint the people of Ile-Ife and to continue to uphold the values expected of him.

The visit formed part of Oyebamiji’s campaign activities in Ile-Ife ahead of the August 15 governorship election, during which the APC candidate also unveiled his plans for infrastructure, education, healthcare and power supply if elected governor.