Osun decides: Adeleke alleges plot to withdraw security agents from polling units

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, has raised the alarm over an alleged directive to withdraw security personnel from polling units and collation centres across the state as vote counting continues.

Adeleke, in a statement posted on his X handle, said the development could expose voters, officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and other personnel to danger.

The governor called on President Bola Tinubu, the Inspector-General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to intervene, urging security agencies to protect the electoral process.

“I have just been reliably informed that some unscrupulous persons have given a directive to withdraw security agents from polling units and collation centres across Osun State,” Adeleke said.

He also expressed concern over alleged attempts to disrupt or take over collation centres across the state, describing such reports as “deeply concerning and unacceptable.”

“The IGP, DG DSS should not allow desperate politicians to truncate the Osun election. Mr President should intervene now! 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 added.

Adeleke reminded the president of his commitment to the people of Osun State that their votes would count and that the outcome of the election would reflect their genuine choice. He called on the Nigeria Police Force, DSS, Nigerian Army, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other security agencies to adhere to the president’s directive.

The governor also urged INEC to provide all necessary support to conclude the process and deliver a credible and transparent outcome, adding, “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”.