By Dapo Akinrefon

OSOGBO — A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Mr Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has urged political actors and stakeholders to shun violence and promote peaceful engagement ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

Oyintiloye made the call on Wednesday while addressing journalists during an empowerment programme for informal workers at his campaign office in Ibokun, Obokun Local Government Area of the state.

He stressed that the APC remained committed to peaceful political activities and appealed to stakeholders and members of the public to promote tolerance and responsible engagement before, during and after the election.

The programme attracted informal workers, including barbers, hairdressers, fumigators, welders, textile workers, members of the National Union of Tailors and Electrical Workers, market men and women, commercial motorcyclists and members of the Nigeria Automobile Technicians Association (NATA).

Members of non-indigenous communities, including Igede, Idoma and Tiv residents from Benue State living in Obokun Local Government Area, also attended the event.

Oyintiloye said the empowerment programme was part of his efforts to support hardworking residents and strengthen grassroots participation in governance.

He urged the beneficiaries to see the initiative as an expression of his commitment to the welfare of ordinary citizens, particularly people whose livelihoods depend on their daily businesses and skills.

He also urged the participants to return to their communities and support the APC candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, in the election.

Oyintiloye said an Oyebamiji-led administration would prioritise inclusive governance, economic empowerment, skills development and improved opportunities for workers in the informal sector.

He stressed that every segment of society would be given attention under the proposed administration.

A community leader, Bishop Michael Adewale, commended the initiative, describing it as a demonstration of grassroots-oriented politics and concern for the welfare of residents.

He urged the beneficiaries to remain united and peaceful before, during and after the election, stressing that political differences should not be allowed to damage existing relationships in the communities.

Speaking on behalf of artisans and other informal workers, Mr Tijani Bello expressed appreciation for the support extended to them during the civic engagement programme.

Bello said artisans constituted a significant part of the grassroots economy and deserved access to empowerment programmes, skills development, financial support, infrastructure and better economic opportunities.

He assured the organisers that the artisans would take the message of the programme back to their communities and mobilise support for Oyebamiji and the APC.