Accord Party presidential candidate Gbenga Olawepo Hashim has accused the Federal Government of using federal institutions against the Osun State Government as the August 15 governorship election approaches.
Hashim alleged that disputes over local government allocations, restrictions on state accounts and the conduct of security agencies amounted to improper political pressure.
He acknowledged reports that restrictions placed on some state accounts had been lifted following presidential intervention but argued that the measures should not have been imposed.
The Accord candidate said federal institutions should remain neutral in political contests and warned against actions capable of undermining public confidence in democratic processes.
He alleged that some federal officials had acted in ways that favoured the All Progressives Congress and said individuals responsible for unlawful conduct should be held accountable through appropriate legal processes.
Hashim called on President Bola Tinubu to direct security agencies and other federal institutions to maintain strict neutrality before and during the Osun election.
He argued that voters must be allowed to make their choices without intimidation or interference.
The presidential candidate also appealed to residents to participate peacefully in the election and exercise their constitutional right to vote.
His allegations reflect the heightened political tension surrounding the Osun contest and remain claims made by an opposition political figure.
Hashim said credible elections required public institutions to act impartially regardless of the political interests involved.
