The African Democratic Congress, ADC, governorship candidate in Osun State, Najeem Salaam, has expressed confidence ahead of Saturday’s election, saying voters are ready for a leader who can restore peace and end political violence.
Salaam made the declaration during the Arise News Town Hall for governorship candidates, where he argued that years of political tension and violence had made peace a major priority for residents. According to him, Osun voters are looking beyond political affiliations and would support the candidate they believe can guarantee stability across the state.
“Osun people do not want thuggery again because they see us and study as the most peaceful party. They also know the only candidate that can bring peace is Najeem Salam and the only party that can bring peace is the ADC,” he said.
The ADC candidate alleged that political violence and the availability of weapons remained serious concerns in Osun. He argued that electing candidates he believed could not manage political tensions could further aggravate the situation.
“Osun people know that if they give it to A or B, they will fight. I can tell you that Osun is filled with thuggery and ammunition. So, we will bring peace,” Salaam said.
He said his political ambition was not limited to winning an election but centred on creating better living conditions for residents. Salaam pledged to pursue policies aimed at human development, effective governance and improving the state’s overall prospects.
“To build a better today and tomorrow for Osun. I go in to develop Osun in a better way, give people what belongs to them. I am more than fit than any other governor,” he said.
The ADC candidate also presented himself as a politician who prefers research, planning and structured policymaking to political theatrics. Salaam said the programmes contained in his 10-point agenda were designed around achievable objectives rather than unrealistic promises.
“I am a very reserved person. I conduct research and all that constitute them in my ten-point agenda are doable. It is codified for people that would have access to it. I have been in government and I know how we did,” he said.
He also pointed to his years of grassroots political involvement as an advantage in understanding the challenges facing ordinary residents. According to Salaam, his political journey began at the local government level, where he had direct interactions with communities and gained an understanding of their needs.
“I started my political career from the local government. I have been looking after people and I know their needs. If I have the opportunity, I will serve humanity,” Salaam said.
The ADC candidate maintained that his experience in government, grassroots engagement and policy development had prepared him for the Osun governorship. He identified the restoration of peace and security as one of the central priorities he would pursue if elected, promising to combine it with policies aimed at improving governance and human development across the state.
