Osun Has Rejected Violence, ‘Tabon Tabon’ Politics Says Adeleke
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
Governor Ademola Adeleke has said the people of Osun State have rejected violence and “tabon tabon” politics, choosing instead what he described as peaceful leadership and good governance ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
The governor made the declaration on Monday during a campaign visit to Iree, where he paid a courtesy visit to the Aare of Iree, Oba Muritala Oyelakin. The governor’s convoy moved slowly through the town as thousands of residents lined the roads from the entrance of Iree to the royal palace to welcome him.
Speaking at the palace, Adeleke said the reception he received in Iree reflected the support his administration enjoys across the state.
“Iree people have proved the naysayers wrong. Osun people, from town to town, have demonstrated their love for Imole. Those preaching ‘tabon tabon’ have been rejected by the people,” the governor said.
“Light has entered Iree. Light has entered Osun. Darkness will never return. Good governance will be reaffirmed on August 15.”
The governor also accused some politicians of resorting to violence instead of engaging in issue-based campaigns.
“Osun people have embraced light and rejected politicians who shoot and wound innocent people instead of conducting peaceful campaigns,” he said.
Adeleke assured residents that his administration would continue to execute developmental projects across the state if re-elected.
“We will not stop developing Iree and other parts of Osun. We will continue to invest in road infrastructure, education, healthcare and other social projects for the benefit of our people,” he added.
The governor’s remarks came against the backdrop of the “tabon tabon” slogan, which attracted public attention after a viral video showed an Iree chieftain, Adebayo Adeleke Banik, chanting the phrase following recent incidents of political violence in the state.
In his remarks, the Aare of Iree, Oba Muritala Oyelakin, commended the governor for what he described as his respect for the traditional institution and the developmental projects executed in Iree and other parts of Osun State.
“For the respect you have shown to Iree, God will continue to honour you. Nobody wants darkness. Once light arrives, darkness disappears. Iree is with you,” the monarch said.
“The people of Iree, both at home and in the diaspora, are solidly behind you. You have done well for Iree and Osun State. We are confident you will complete the Iree–Ada Road and deliver more projects that will improve the lives of our people.”
The visit formed part of Governor Adeleke’s campaign tour across Osun State ahead of the August 15 governorship election.