FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
OSUN STATE ELECTION: PROTECT DEMOCRATIC VALUES, UPHOLD THE RULE OF LAW AND LET THE PEOPLE’S VOICE PREVAIL
Issued by:
Amb. Aina Oladipo Michael
National President, Association of NGOs and CSOs in Nigeria
The Association of NGOs and CSOs in Nigeria commends the Federal Government and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the commitment expressed toward strengthening democratic governance and creating an environment where citizens can freely exercise their constitutional right to vote.
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The Osun State Election presents another important opportunity to demonstrate that democracy, the rule of law and the will of the people must remain sacrosanct in Nigeria.
We believe that a New Nigeria Is Possible, a Nigeria where elections are determined by the votes of citizens, not by intimidation, manipulation, violence or undue influence.
We therefore call on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to remain fully independent, impartial and professional in the discharge of its constitutional responsibilities. INEC must not be subjected to any form of political pressure, interference or manipulation that could undermine the credibility of the electoral process. Every vote must be properly protected, transparently counted and accurately declared in accordance with the law.
We further urge all political parties, candidates, security agencies, election officials and stakeholders to respect the rule of law and democratic principles before, during and after the election. Political differences must never become a justification for violence or the suppression of citizens’ rights.
A Message to Nigerian Youth
We particularly appeal to Nigerian youths: do not allow yourselves to be recruited or used as political thugs, agents of violence or instruments of electoral manipulation.
Your future is greater than any political ambition. Do not risk your life, freedom or future for politicians who will eventually return to their homes while you face the consequences of violence.
Use your strength, energy and voice to vote, mobilise peacefully, monitor the process and defend democracy through lawful means—not violence.
The Association also calls on parents, community leaders, religious leaders, traditional institutions and civil society organisations to intensify peacebuilding efforts and encourage young people to reject electoral violence.
Our Collective Responsibility
Democracy is not merely about winning elections. It is about respect for the constitution, equality before the law, freedom of choice, accountability, human dignity and the peaceful transfer of political power.
We urge the people of Osun State to come out peacefully and exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation. Every eligible voter should be allowed to make an independent choice, and every legitimate vote should count.
We call on all stakeholders to remember that Nigeria belongs to all of us. The strength of our democracy depends on our collective commitment to protecting the ballot, respecting the law and accepting legitimate electoral outcomes.
The Association of NGOs and CSOs in Nigeria remains committed to promoting good governance, democratic accountability, citizens’ participation, human rights, peace and sustainable national development.
A New Nigeria Is Possible, when the rule of law prevails, institutions remain independent, elections are credible, and the voice of the people is respected.
Signed:
Amb. Aina Oladipo Michael, CMC, NBDSP, A.IHRCD
National President
Association of NGOs and CSOs in Nigeria
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER 18TH AUGUST, 2026)
