The Lagos East Senatorial Candidate of the Accord Party, Hon. Blessing Maduka, has urged INEC and securerity agencies to provide a level playing ground for all contestants and ensure that voters can cast their ballots without fear or intimidation

She called on political actors in Osun State to uphold the rule of law and shun vote-buying and violence ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

Maduka made the call on Friday in Abuja at a press briefing  while reacting to the controversy surrounding the restriction placed on the Osun State Government’s account.

According to her, legitimate investigations into alleged wrongdoing must be encouraged, but government institutions must exercise their powers within the boundaries of the law.

“Investigate, prosecute, but never abandon due process. The rule of law must not become a casualty of political competition,” she said.

She stressed that the freezing or restriction of a government account should not be undertaken outside lawful procedures, adding that institutional powers must be exercised responsibly.

Maduka welcomed the reported directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the restriction on the Osun State Government account to be lifted, describing it as an opportunity to reinforce constitutional governance and institutional restraint..

“If there is an allegation, investigate it. If there is evidence, prosecute it. But due process must never be sacrificed in the name of fighting corruption,” she added.

Speaking on the forthcoming election, Maduka urged all political parties and candidates to focus on issues affecting the people rather than resorting to intimidation, inducement or violence.

She particularly condemned vote-buying, describing it as an unhealthy practice capable of undermining the integrity of the electoral process.

“Vote-buying is not empowerment. It is an attempt to purchase the conscience of the electorate. It is exploitation of the masses already going through hell in this harsh economy. Let the strongest ideas win, not the deepest pockets,” she said.

Maduka appealed to the electorate to remain vigilant and exercise their franchise peacefully, while urging political parties to respect the choice of voters.

The Accord candidate further appealed to candidates, party leaders and supporters to reject violence before, during and after the election.

“No political office is worth the blood of an Osun citizen. Political differences should never become reasons for violence,” she stated.

She called on all stakeholders to remember that political contests are temporary, while the peace and development of Osun State belong to everyone.

“After the election, Osun will still be here. Our people will still live together. We must therefore choose peace, democracy and due process over desperation to win.”