Osun Governorship Election: Adeleke, Oyebamiji Supporters Trade Words as Social Media Campaign Intensifies
Osun Governorship Election: Adeleke, Oyebamiji Supporters Trade Words as Social Media Campaign Intensifies
The race for the August 15 Osun State governorship election has entered a new phase, with supporters of Governor Ademola Adeleke and the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, engaging in fierce exchanges over the use of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), while social media platforms have become the latest battleground for both camps.
The debate followed Oyebamiji’s appeal to eligible voters not to sell their Permanent Voter Cards, describing the PVC as a powerful democratic tool that should be used to elect credible leaders rather than for financial gain. He urged residents to safeguard the integrity of their votes and participate peacefully in the forthcoming governorship election.
The appeal drew swift responses from the Adeleke camp, with both political sides exchanging criticisms over governance, campaign promises, and electoral credibility. Spokespersons for the APC and the governor’s political structure have continued to defend their candidates while challenging the claims and records of the opposing side.
Beyond official statements, supporters of both Adeleke and Oyebamiji have taken the political contest to social media, where Facebook, X, TikTok, WhatsApp, and other platforms have been flooded with campaign posters, videos, commentaries, counter-claims, and heated exchanges. The online campaign has gathered momentum as party loyalists seek to influence public opinion ahead of the governorship poll.
Political observers believe the growing war of words both online and on the campaign trail reflects the high stakes of the election. They have urged political actors and their supporters to focus on issue-based campaigns and avoid inflammatory rhetoric capable of threatening the peaceful conduct of the election.
As the election draws closer, stakeholders have continued to call on political parties, candidates, and supporters to uphold democratic values, respect electoral laws, and ensure that the governorship poll is peaceful, credible, and transparent.
