From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
The Traditional Religion Worshippers Association of Osun State (TRWASO), on Wednesday, said it may consider administering oaths on members to ensure total compliance with the directives to avoid vote merchandising in the July 16 governorship election.
The association also advised adherents of other religions to emulate them and warn their members not to sell their votes.
In a press statement issued in Osogbo by the President of TRWASO, Dr Oluseyi Atanda, the association said it would not mind if the oath could be administered to all residents of the state to forestall further spread of vote-buying.
“We have control and means to ensure that our members comply with our directive not to sell or buy votes. If need be, we may go to the extent of administering oath to them to ensure total compliance. It would have been a historic feat if such an oath could be administered to all inhabitants of Osun to forestall this ugly trend rearing its head and spreading like wildfire.
“We urge leaders and adherents of Islam and Christianity to follow our noble example and impress it on their people not to sell or buy votes. They should also go the extra length to chastise their members for selling and buying votes. So far, we have not seen a single traditionalist being held for selling or buying votes and that should be emulated by other religions.
“Before the poll, we hope to have concluded all necessary rites that will ward off-road accidents, disturbance during the poll and other things that may cause hindrance to the peaceful election and we believe Almighty Olodumare will grant our prayers,” the statement added.