The European Union Election Observer Mission will be on ground to monitor the August 15 Osun State governorship election, with the Austrian Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Peter Guschelbauer, confirming that the bloc is committed to supporting credible polls in Nigeria.
Governor Ademola Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, in a statement on Sunday, stated that Mr. Guschelbauer disclosed this on Saturday during a courtesy visit to the Governor at Government House, Osogbo.
Rasheed said the EU’s interest is in strengthening democratic practice and ensuring that elections conform with Nigerian electoral laws, noting that the Osun poll will serve as an important test ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Accompanied by the embassy’s political adviser, the Ambassador commended Governor Adeleke for his administration’s focus on good governance and urged all political actors to adhere to the rule of law.
He stressed that peaceful conduct by parties and stakeholders is critical to subnational stability and to building confidence ahead of 2027.
The Austrian envoy also highlighted the long-standing cultural ties between Austria and Osun, pointing specifically to the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove as a bridge for tourism and cultural preservation.
He said Austria is keen on deepening business partnerships between Austrian firms and Osun-based companies across agriculture, renewable energy, and other sectors.
Governor Adeleke, while welcoming the delegation, called for increased international observation of the forthcoming election.
He told the Ambassador that EU involvement would help reinforce compliance with the Electoral Act and promote a free and fair process.
The governor added that his government remains committed to 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,” Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying.
In a related development, a team from the British Embassy is expected in Osun this week for pre-election engagements with stakeholders ahead of the August 15 vote.
The statement said the visit is part of the UK’s routine monitoring ahead of major state elections.
Meanwhile, the state government has moved forward on its climate and transportation agenda with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Green Apple HK Nigeria Limited.
The deal, according to Rasheed, will see electric vehicles deployed first for government departments and later extended for public use.
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Governor Adeleke announced the partnership on Saturday while unveiling the first set of electric motorbikes under the “Imole Electric Motorbikes Initiative.”
He described the MOU as a major step toward sustainable transportation in Osun.
Commending the lead partner, Ibukun Demurreen of Green Apple, the governor said the electric bikes are both environmentally friendly and cost effective for riders. He promised that the initiative will expand rapidly in the coming months.
“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,” the governor stated.
“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,” he added.
The post EU Observers Set For Osun Poll As Adeleke Rolls Out Electric Bikes In Green Transport Drive appeared first on OsunDefender.
