Former Anambra State Governor and African Democratic Congress presidential candidate Peter Obi has urged politicians and their supporters to avoid violence ahead of Saturday’s Osun State governorship election.

Obi, in a statement on Thursday, called on political parties, candidates, security agencies, INEC and other stakeholders to ensure that the election is peaceful, transparent and credible.

He appealed to residents of Osun not to allow politicians to turn neighbours and communities against one another in the pursuit of electoral victory.

Obi stressed that “Osun belongs to its people”, urging voters to exercise their franchise freely and without intimidation.

He also warned politicians, supporters, influencers and financiers from outside the state against importing violence or desperation into the election.

The ADC candidate called on security agencies to remain neutral and protect every voter equally, stressing that their loyalty should be to Nigeria and the Constitution rather than any political party or individual.

He further charged the Independent National Electoral Commission to protect the credibility of the process from accreditation and voting through collation and declaration, saying every legitimate vote must count.

The appeal comes amid heightened political tension in Osun, including controversy surrounding remarks attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi and concerns over alleged political violence ahead of Saturday’s poll.