African Democratic Congress governorship candidate Najeem Salaam has raised concerns over the alleged non-recognition of ADC agents in several parts of Osun State. This reportedly happened during Saturday’s governorship election.
According to Vanguard, Salaam spoke after arriving at his polling unit at about 10:39am. He said reports reaching him indicated that some of the party’s accredited representatives were not being recognised, despite their names being submitted before the election.
The former Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly said the problem had been reported in 10 local government areas. He added that the matter had been brought to the attention of relevant authorities for intervention.
Salaam raises concern over ADC agents
Salaam said the party expected its agents to be allowed to perform their roles at polling units. However, he expressed concern that their exclusion could affect the electoral process.
He also rejected allegations that the ADC was involved in vote buying. Instead, he insisted that the party had focused on convincing voters through its programmes rather than offering inducements.
“We converse with the people, we let them know our programmes, and that is exactly what we do. Vote buying is out of it. I have never in my life bought votes,” he said.
Salaam argued that voters should be allowed to freely decide who they want to govern the state. He stressed this decision should be made without interference or inducement.
“People will decide whom they want, and I think it should be very fair enough for them to have the right to choose whom they prefer as a candidate or as the governor of the state,” he added.
The ADC candidate, who voted at Ward 4, also expressed confidence that he would emerge victorious. He attributed his optimism to his faith and the support he believed he had received from voters across the state.
