The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Osun State, Dr Najeem Salam, expressed concern about the growing menace of voter inducement ahead of the August 15 gubernatorial election.
Salam lamented that the trend poses a serious threat to the credibility of the electoral process.
The ADC flag bearer stated while receiving a delegation of British envoys who paid him a courtesy visit as part of their engagement with key political stakeholders ahead of the governorship poll.
Salam also bemoaned the spate of political violence in the state by some political actors, stating that the menace could undermine the people’s right to freely choose their leaders and erode public confidence in democratic institutions.
The former speaker of the Osun House of Assembly, urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and civil society organisations to intensify efforts to curb vote buying and to prosecute those found culpable.
He maintained that elections should be won on ideas, competence, and the confidence of the electorate rather than on financial inducements.
“I want to emphasise that the integrity of our democracy depends on peaceful conduct, a level playing field, and the freedom of voters to make their choices without fear or coercion.”
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