Former Minister of Sports, Prof. Taoheed Adedoja, has urges Oyo youths to shun violence during the Governorship and State House of Assembly elections slated for Saturday.

Adedoja made the appeal on Thursday at his Popoyemoja family house in Ibadan while addressing community and political leaders.

The former minister, who spoke on the need to ensure peaceful election, described the governorship and state House of Assembly polls as “very crucial in the state.’’

Adedoja also urged the leaders to prevail on their followers to maintain peace.

“I have come here to address leaders and members of various political parties in Oyo State and they have honored my invitation in spite of the fact I am one of the leaders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

“I am doing this for us to have a peaceful election and I believe strongly that we are going to have peaceful elections in the state.

“Popoyemoja community is a very strong traditional community in Ibadan that is highly respected.

“It is the seat of Olubadadan of Ibadabnland, Oba Saliu Adetunji, and for this, we must ensure there is peace,’’ Adedoja said.

Mr Aderemi Oni, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress in Ibadan South West Local Government, commended Adedoja for the initiative, saying it was aimed at ensuring a peaceful election in the state.