Ahead of the August 16 Ogun State Federal Constituency Bye-election, President Bola Tinubu’s administration has vowed to ensure a free, fair, and credible poll, with security agencies placed on high alert to forestall any breakdown of law and order.
Credible sources within the Presidential Villa have revealed that the President has directed the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, and other security chiefs to provide a level playing field for all political parties participating in the election. This comes as the main opposition party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), declared its support for President Tinubu’s policies, a move seen as a significant political realignment ahead of the poll.
Security reports indicate that notorious political thugs, including Danku and Efele, both previously fingered in election violence in past polls, have been placed under close surveillance. Intelligence suggests that their networks may attempt to disrupt the election, particularly in flashpoints across Ogun East.
A top DSS source confirmed that names of known troublemakers and their associates have been compiled, with some already invited to sign undertakings to keep the peace. “We are monitoring their movements. Anyone caught trying to cause chaos will face the full wrath of the law,” the source warned.
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Analysts say the PDP’s recent declaration of support for President Tinubu may have altered the political calculations in Ogun. Security authorities have assured residents of adequate protection and a peaceful electoral process, with strategic deployments planned to prevent any form of thuggery or ballot box snatching. The President’s clear directive against intimidation or manipulation has set the tone for what security operatives expect to be a rancour-free election.
The political landscape remains tense however, as the unexpected PDP alignment with the President’s agenda has introduced new dynamics into the electoral equation, with all parties now operating under heightened scrutiny from security agencies determined to maintain order during the crucial bye-election.
