Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared Friday a work-free day to enable public service workers to participate in Saturday’s governorship election.

According to a circular issued by the Head of Service, Elder Ayanleye Aina, and made public by the Governor’s Spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the break is intended to allow workers to travel where necessary and adequately prepare to exercise their franchise on election day.

The circular clarifies that the directive covers all categories of public workers, with the exception of those on essential and emergency duties.

Ahead of the polls, Governor Adeleke urged workers, alongside their relatives and friends, to turn out massively and safeguard their votes to ensure the continuation of good governance across the state.

In a pre-election message, the governor praised the unwavering support of the labor leadership and the state’s workforce, highlighting the harmonious relationship between his administration and public servants.

“The time for action has come. As formal workers at state establishments, I task you to mobilise informal workers, artisans, and professional bodies. We must remain strong in defense of our constitutional rights to vote and be voted for.

“We must defend the gains of the last three and a half years plus. Ours is a workers-friendly government which has delivered across the board to labor and the people of Osun. We cannot and must not allow a return to the dark days,” Adeleke said.