OSUN DECIDES 2026: Aragbiji of Iragbiji Calls for Peaceful Polls, Rejects Vote Buying and Political Violence

 

By oluwaseyi fadoro 

As Osun State prepares for the forthcoming governorship election, the Aragbiji of Iragbiji, Oba Abdur Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi, has called on residents to participate peacefully in the electoral process, describing the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) as the most powerful tool in a democracy.

The revered monarch urged eligible voters to come out en masse on election day and cast their ballots for candidates of their choice without fear, intimidation or undue influence.

Oba Olabomi disclosed that the Iragbiji traditional institution had consistently educated residents on the importance of voter registration and the collection of their PVCs, stressing that every vote counts in determining the future of the state.

The royal father, however, expressed concern over what he described as undemocratic practices by some politicians, including intimidation, coercion and attempts to compel voters to support particular political parties.

He condemned reports of threats against citizens who refuse to align with certain political interests, insisting that democracy guarantees every Nigerian the fundamental right to vote freely without harassment or intimidation.

The monarch also warned against vote buying, urging the electorate not to exchange their votes for money, food items or other material gifts. Instead, he advised voters to elect candidates they genuinely believe possess the vision and capacity to deliver good governance and meet the aspirations of the people.

Speaking on leadership, Oba Olabomi said decisions within his palace are reached through consultations with members of his traditional council and family heads, noting that the inclusive approach has strengthened public confidence in the traditional institution.

The Aragbiji further appealed to the political class to end the culture of political violence and thuggery, lamenting that the trend, which he said became deeply rooted around 2007, continues to threaten the state's democratic development.

According to him, politicians are responsible for recruiting, sponsoring and rewarding political thugs, often appointing and celebrating them after elections. He stressed that traditional rulers neither control nor direct political thugs, maintaining that such individuals remain accountable to the politicians who sponsor them.

Oba Olabomi called on whoever emerges victorious in the election to make the eradication of political thuggery a priority and to implement measures that will guarantee lasting peace and security across Osun State.

He also revealed that traditional rulers across the state had advised their subjects to return home peacefully after casting their votes and to avoid any form of confrontation at polling units.

The monarch concluded by urging all political parties and their candidates to reduce political tension, caution their supporters against inflammatory rhetoric, and work collectively towards ensuring a peaceful, credible and violence-free election in Osun State.