The National President of the Ilupeju Youth Development Association (IYDA), Comrade Law Ibitoye, has urged sons and daughters of Ilupeju Ekiti residing in Osun State to remain vigilant, peaceful and security-conscious as they prepare to exercise their franchise in the Saturday, August 15, 2026, governorship election.
Ibitoye, in a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday, appealed particularly to the youth to come out en masse and vote for candidates of their choice, stressing that they have the constitutional right to participate in the electoral process without fear or intimidation. He, however, urged them to exercise caution, avoid confrontations and refuse to be drawn into activities capable of compromising their safety or future.
The IYDA President warned youths against allowing themselves to be used by politicians to perpetrate violence, intimidation, thuggery or other electoral offences. He advised them to avoid engaging in arguments at polling units, responding to provocation or participating in activities that could result in arrest or fight. According to him, political differences should never become a reason for brothers, friends and neighbours to turn against one another.
“You are worthy ambassadors of Ilupeju Ekiti and very precious to Ilupeju Ekiti. Do not allow anybody to use you for political violence or an act that could bring embarrassment to yourselves, your families and our community. Vote peacefully, return home safely and allow the electoral process to take its course,” Ibitoye said.
He also urged the indigenes to respect security personnel, electoral officials and other voters, while encouraging them to report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities rather than taking the law into their own hands.
He prayed that God Almighty would protect all sons and daughters of Ilupeju Ekiti before, during and after the election, urging them to put their safety first and ensure that the name and reputation of the community remain protected.
