Ahead of the forthcoming gubernatorial election in the state of Osun, the state Police command has organised peace meeting of various political parties in the State.
Osun Commissioner of Police, Wale Olokode who was represented by his Deputy, Val Kanayo, on Thursday, said it is important to put all political parties and other stakeholders on their toes on the need to abide by all rules and regulations guiding the conduct of peaceful, credible and violencefree elections.
According to him, “we are all aware that the governorship election in Osun will take place in July this year and political parties have begun necessary and required preparations for the process.
“In accordance with the time table released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on the Osun Governorship election, signed by its Secretary, Rose Oriaran-Anthony, build-ups to the election would begin February 15, 2022.
” The notice also indicated that February 16 March 12, 2022 is fixed for political parties to conduct their primaries and resolve disputes that may arise from them while April 17, 2022 is the official date for the commencement of campaigns by parties” , he stated.
He added that political activities, party primaries, consultation visits, campaigns and other are legal so far they are within the confine of the Electoral Act and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He however, enjoined all political parties and groups to play the game by the rules and allow themselves and their activities be guided by the provisions of the Electoral Act.
He said, ‘ I advise politicians and other members of the public who may be supporting political parties to always formally inform the command before ernbarking on processions, assemblies, campaigns or rallies in order to make necessary security arrangement that would prevent any breakdown of law and order.
” I want to assure all political parties of a level playing ground before, during and after the election . I also want to assure the entire people of the state that the police will leave no stone unturned in ensuring security of lives and properties before, during and after the election period”.
