Adeleke Needs A Miracle” — Rufai Oseni Speaks On Osun Governorship Race

Arise Television’s The Morning Show anchor, Rufai Oseni, has predicted a difficult and potentially violent governorship election in Osun State, saying it could take a “miracle” for Governor Ademola Adeleke to retain his seat.

Oseni made the remarks on Tuesday while analysing the forthcoming Osun governorship election and the political factors he believes could influence its outcome.

According to the broadcaster, the deployment of what he described as “federal might” could be the biggest factor shaping the election.

He argued that the influence of the Federal Government could present a significant challenge to Adeleke’s bid for re-election, adding that the governor would have to overcome the perceived advantage to secure victory at the polls.

“Coming back to Osun elections, like I’ve been saying, the number one factor in this election is the power of federal might, and federal might has been used very well.

“That’s why I predicted it’s going to be a miracle if Adeleke passes this test because of federal might. And when I’m saying this, I’m saying this because I want the people of Osun to go out there and put their money where their mouth is,” he said.

Oseni subsequently urged residents of Osun State to turn out for the election and exercise their right to vote, stressing the importance of allowing citizens to determine their preferred candidate through the ballot.

The television host also expressed concern over reports of violence surrounding the political contest.

He alleged that some individuals had already sustained injuries in incidents connected to the election and warned that tensions could escalate as the poll approaches.

“I’m not saying it to distract Osun people. Like I said before, this election will be very bloody. People were also hurt this morning.

“A few days to the election, people were also hurt. So it’s going to be a bloody election. Pure and simple, because there are a lot of moving parts,” he added.

Oseni did not provide additional details during the programme regarding the reported incidents or identify those allegedly injured.

Federal Might May Hurt Adeleke – Oseni

Oseni also identified the presence of a strong third-party candidate as another factor that could potentially affect Adeleke’s re-election prospects.

He argued that previous electoral patterns suggested that a combination of strong federal influence and a formidable third candidate could create difficulties for the incumbent governor.

“And when you check election history, any time you have a cocktail of federal might and you have a big third candidate, it doesn’t favour Adeleke,” Oseni said.