Blessing Bello, Reporting
THE African Action Congress (AAC) governorship candidate for the forthcoming Osun State election, Olajide Esan, has launched a scathing attack on his political rivals and publicly declared a lack of confidence in the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigeria Police Force just two weeks before the crucial August 15 poll.
Speaking to journalists in Osogbo on Saturday, Esan voiced his distrust in the state’s electoral authorities, redirecting his faith entirely towards the people of Osun. “I have no confidence in INEC and the police. I only have confidence in the good people of Osun,” he stated, urging the electorate to remain vigilant and protect their votes during the electoral process.
Debate Collapse Sparks Fury
Mr. Esan’s remarks come amid the dramatic collapse of a scheduled governorship debate, which was cancelled by organisers on Saturday. The debate, arranged by a coalition of private radio stations, was intended to feature the candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Accord Party, and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), alongside Mr. Esan.
However, the event was called off after the other leading candidates failed to appear, with organisers citing “unfavourable security reports and the reluctance of some of the leading governorship candidates to participate” . While Mr. Esan had already arrived at the venue, his opponents were notably absent, prompting his accusation that they had deliberately boycotted the event.
Allegations of Unpreparedness
Reacting to the boycott, Esan condemned the absent candidates, describing the debate as a “vital democratic platform” where aspirants must present their vision and defend their policies to the public.
“In our view, their absence speaks volumes. It suggests they lack the courage, competence, and preparedness required to govern Osun State,” Esan argued . “A candidate who cannot face the media and the electorate to explain his agenda cannot be entrusted with the responsibility of leading the state. Running away from a debate is not leadership—it is an admission of unpreparedness”.
A Call for Accountable Leadership
Mr. Esan maintained that democracy demands accountability and transparency, asserting that the people of Osun deserve leaders who are ready to answer critical questions and present practical solutions to the state’s challenges.
Despite the absence of his main rivals, Esan took the opportunity to address the public, positioning himself as the credible alternative for a “new Osun.” He concluded by calling on citizens to reject the “politics of avoidance” and embrace a future built on competence by voting for the AAC in the upcoming election
The Osun State governorship election is scheduled for August 15, 2026.
