The Governor of Osun State and Accord Party governorship candidate, Ademola Adeleke, has declared that he is not intimidated by the alleged backing of the Federal Government and several state governors for the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Speaking on Tuesday at the Arise Townhall Meeting, Adeleke described himself as a “bulldozer”, insisting that he was ready to face what he called “Federal might” and the influence of governors campaigning for his rival.
He dismissed claims that the involvement and endorsement of serving governors could affect the outcome of the election.
“I am a bulldozer. I am not afraid of Federal might and governors backing the APC candidate. If they like, they should bring all the governors,” Adeleke said.
He stated that the governors supporting the APC candidate were his friends, adding that their presence in the state would not translate into votes for his opponent.
According to him, the governors were free to campaign and mobilise support for the APC candidate, but they would not be able to vote in the election.
“Those governors are my friends. I am a civilised administrator. They won’t vote; they can only come and dance, and after the election, we will meet,” he said.
Adeleke also dismissed accusations that his administration had militarised the state, saying he lacked the constitutional authority to deploy the armed forces.
“I did not militarise Osun. I have no such capacity. I am not the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces,” he said.
The governor’s remarks came amid intensified political activities in Osun State, with parties increasing campaigns, mobilisation and voter engagement ahead of Saturday’s election.
The contest has attracted growing public attention as major political parties and their candidates intensify efforts to win the support of voters across the state.
Adeleke, who is seeking another term in office, is facing the APC candidate in the closely watched race, with both camps working to strengthen their support base before the poll.
