Senator Ademola Adeleke, the candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Osun State governorship election, coming up on July 16, has called on the international community to help secure free and fair election in the state and other elections in Nigeria.
Speaking at his Ede residence while playing host to a delegation of the Britisih High Commission, Adeleke reminded the diplomatic community of what transpired during the 2018 election and asked for proactive steps to nip in the bud any plot to rig forthcoming governorship election in the state.
Adeleke, as contained in a statement by the Director, Media and Strategy, Ademola Adeleke Campaign Organisation, Olawale Rasheed, said: “2018 is still fresh in the minds of our people. Democracy should be about the choice of the people. We need help to make our elections free and fair.”
Adeleke commended British support for the growth and development of the Nigerian democracy and alleged that the present government in Osun state lacks legitimacy, leading to what he called failure in governance, infighting within ruling party and prevalence of bad governance.
“Our party, the PDP, is united and prepared to seek the mandate of the electorate again. We seek free and fair contest. We dare the APC to committ to similar goal in words and actions.
“Our manifesto is robust as it covers the key areas of needs of our people. We want to return government to the people of Osun State,” he added.
Recalling his days as a director at Guiness Nigeria Limited and his experience with the UK arm of the company, the PDP governorship candidate also commended the British values of industry, entrepreneurship and efficiency, noting that a PDP government under him will partner with the British to develop Osun State.
Speaking earlier, the team lead for the British High Commission, Mr Adewale Adebajo, said they are on an exploratory visit to the PDP candidate ahead of an enlarged team visit prior to the election.
He said the British government believes a free and fair election in Nigeria will enhance democratic growth across Africa.
Commending the committment of the candidate to a non-violence, free and fair campaign, Adebajo pledged the support of the British government to Nigeria’s democratic process.
Mr Adebajo (Political Adviser) was accompanied on the visit by the British Deputy High Commission Southern Nigeria Post Security Manager, Mr Shawn Anwoju.
