Against the backdrop of August 15 governorship poll in Osun, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Enitan Adeyeye Ogunwusi, yesterday preached against violence and bloodshed, urging politicians to embrace peaceful conduct in the overall interest of the state.

Receiving the standard bearer of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Oyebamiji popularly known as AMBO and his entourage in his palace, the monarch emphasised the need for all gladiators and stakeholders, irrespective of political affiliations to exhibit Osun’s virtues of peace and love.

Oyebamiji was in Ile-Ife to officially flag off his campaign for election at Enuwa Square.

Oba Ogunwusi who denounced the use of violence for political gains stated: “There should be no bloodshed in Osun. Politics should be conducted peacefully and smoothly. I beg you with my crown: on election day, vote peacefully. We do not want bloodshed.

“Osun people are known for their virtues; let us set a good example. Let everything be peaceful. I do not want anyone carrying guns. I have said my own. The state is greater than any one of us. Politics will come and go, but Osun will remain, “he pleaded.

Oba Ogunwusi also advised Oyebamiji’s running mate, Kayode Adereti, who is an indigene of Ile-Ife, to cooperate with his principal, urging him to set good examples and not bring shame to the ancient town.

He, however, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s resolve to tackle insecurity, stressing that his efforts, especially in preventing bandits from invading Yorubaland were laudable.

In his remark, Oyebamiji promised that when elected, his administration will ensure even distribution of resources across towns and communities.

He also said training and restraining of civil servants within and outside Nigeria will also be given topmost priority, with more focus on health, agriculture and other critical sectors.

“We will give farmers hybrid seeds that will increase output. Our agriculture policy will encourage workers to embrace farming and turn Osun around through farming.Transport unions are our partners and we will assist your unions to enhance your work to benefit your members, “Oyebamiji stated.

Commenting on roads, he said when he elected, construction works will commence work on the Enuwa–Fajuyi Junction road. We have also assessed the Ilare–Sabo Road and the Aderemi Road to Ondo Road.

“We will renovate all dilapidated primary schools in Ile-Ife. We also plan to establish a modern market befitting the status of Ile-Ife as the cradle of the Yoruba race. We want a magnificent market that will make anyone visiting from any part of the world recognise immediately that this is the cradle of the Yoruba race.

“We assure the people of quality healthcare delivery. We will take better care of civil servants in ways they have never experienced before, especially teachers. We will invest heavily in their training so they can provide quality education to our children, “Oyebamiji remarked.