EU to Observe Osun Governorship Poll as Adeleke Launches Electric Transport Initiative
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
The European Union Election Observer Mission will monitor the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, Austrian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Guschelbauer, has disclosed.
Guschelbauer made this known during a courtesy visit to Governor Ademola Adeleke at the Government House, Osogbo, over the weekend, saying the EU remained committed to supporting democratic governance by encouraging free, fair and credible elections.
According to the ambassador, the Osun governorship election is of strategic importance because it precedes Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.
He said, “The European Union hopes to see the Osun election conducted in compliance with Nigerian electoral laws, especially as the Osun poll is a prelude to the 2027 general elections.”
He commended the Adeleke administration for its governance efforts and urged political actors to conduct themselves peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law to ensure stability and democratic progress.
Guschelbauer also reaffirmed Austria’s interest in strengthening its longstanding relationship with Osun State, citing the cultural significance of the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove. He pledged continued collaboration in cultural preservation, tourism development and investment partnerships between Austrian businesses and their counterparts in Osun.
Responding, Governor Adeleke welcomed the planned deployment of EU election observers, describing the mission as a boost to transparency and public confidence in the electoral process.
“The observer intervention of the European Union will strengthen compliance with democratic practices and the Electoral Act for a free and fair poll,” the governor said.
Adeleke reiterated his administration’s commitment to conducting a credible election while assuring development partners and investors of a conducive business environment in the state.
“Our government remains committed to free and fair elections as well as creating an enabling environment for investors and development partners. Osun State offers immense opportunities in agriculture, renewable energy, education, technology, mining and vocational development. We are ready to work with your country and Austrian businesses in exploring these opportunities for mutual growth and prosperity,” he said.
The state government also disclosed that a delegation from the British Embassy is expected in Osun this week for pre-election engagements with stakeholders ahead of the August 15 governorship poll.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Green Apple HK Nigeria Limited for the deployment of electric vehicles across government ministries, departments and agencies, with plans to extend the initiative to public transportation.
Governor Adeleke announced the agreement while unveiling the first batch of electric motorcycles under the Imole Electric Motorbikes Initiative, describing the project as a major milestone in the state’s sustainable transportation agenda.
He commended the company’s lead partner, Ibukun Demurreen, for supporting the initiative, noting that the electric motorcycles would provide a cleaner and more affordable means of transportation.
“Very soon, Osun will see tricycles running on electricity. You will see cars running on electricity. You will see buses running on electricity right here in Osun State.
“This is what we are building for you a future where you spend less on fuel and keep more for your family, your children and your business,” the governor added.