EU to Observe Osun Governorship Election, Adeleke Pledges Credible Poll

The European Union Election Observation Mission will monitor the forthcoming Osun State governorship election as part of efforts to promote credible democratic processes, the Austrian Ambassador to Nigeria, Peter Guschelbauer, has said.

 

Guschelbauer disclosed this during a courtesy visit to Governor Ademola Adeleke at the Government House, Osogbo, according to a statement on Sunday by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.

 

The ambassador said the EU remained committed to strengthening democratic institutions through election observation and encouraging adherence to electoral laws and democratic principles.

 

He noted that the Osun governorship election would be conducted under Nigeria’s electoral framework and described the poll as an important build-up to the 2027 general elections.

 

Guschelbauer, who was accompanied by the embassy’s political adviser, urged political stakeholders in the state to ensure peaceful conduct before, during and after the election.

 

He also commended Adeleke’s administration for its commitment to good governance and expressed Austria’s readiness to strengthen partnerships with Osun State in areas including cultural preservation, tourism and investment.

 

Responding, Adeleke said his administration remained committed to ensuring a free and fair election, while urging the European Union to sustain its involvement in the electoral process.

 

“The observer intervention of the European Union will strengthen compliance with democratic practices and the Electoral Act for free and fair polls,” Adeleke said.

 

The governor said international observation would help boost confidence in the process, adding that his administration was focused on creating an environment conducive for investors and development partners.

 

He highlighted opportunities in agriculture, renewable energy, education, technology, mining and vocational development, saying Osun was ready to collaborate with Austrian businesses for mutual growth.

 

The statement also revealed that a delegation from the British High Commission is expected to visit the state as part of pre-election engagements ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

 

The planned engagements come amid increased political activities in Osun ahead of the poll.

 

Meanwhile, the Osun State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Green Apple HK Nigeria Limited for the deployment of electric vehicles for government agencies, with plans to expand the initiative to public transportation.

 

Adeleke, while unveiling the first batch of electric motorcycles under the Imole Electric Motorbikes Initiative, said the project would reduce transportation costs and promote environmental sustainability.

 

“Very soon, Osun will see tricycles running on electricity. You will see cars running on electricity. You will see buses running on electricity, right here in Osun State,” he said.