Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to uphold integrity as the Osun State governorship election moves into the results collation stage.

In a statement, Adeleke expressed delight that against all odds, the people of Osun State turned out in large numbers to speak with one voice.

"The safety and protection of our people is paramount. I commend the security agencies deployed for this election and urge them to remain vigilant as we move into the collation of results; from polling units to wards to local government areas. I also call on INEC to uphold the highest standards of integrity throughout this process," he said.

Adeleke revealed that the federal government has provided adequate security, expressing confidence in the professionalism of all institutions involved.

"Democracy is at its strongest when we honour the wishes of our people and protect the sanctity of their votes. To every Osun citizen: I urge you to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and committed to this democratic moment.

"Let the people’s will prevail," he said.

The governor earlier said he was not happy with the preliminary report from the ongoing exercise.

According to him, reports indicated that BIVAS machines malfunctioned in many polling units in the state.

When asked how peaceful the election has been so far, Adeleke complained that thugs were disturbing people in the Olorunda and Irewole councils. He went on to mention that a particular thug, Enuku, and his men were on the prowl.

He told Osun Radio, "Right now, there are complaints that BIVAS are not working well. I am not happy at all. The police are aiding the APC. Enuku, the thug, is disturbing people.

"People came out to vote, but the machine is slow. It is not working well. INEC should find a solution. My people are being chased in Ikire. I am still watching them. I don't know if the police are working for APC. I am still watching.

"In Olorunda, they are behaving anyhow. My advice is that my people should vote and defend their votes. Don't be afraid. It is just for one day.

ASA