Osogbo, Feb 24, 2025 – Despite warnings from security agencies and the federal government, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, on Sunday, swore in newly elected local government chairmen.
These chairmen subsequently inaugurated their councillors within their respective local government areas.
APC’s Response and Call to Action
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has countered this move by instructing its reinstated local government chairmen and councillors to resume work on Monday. The APC dismissed reports claiming otherwise and labeled the swearing-in of new officials as provocative and a threat to the state’s peace. The party accused Governor Adeleke of disregarding a Court of Appeal ruling that reinstated previously sacked local government officials.
Governor Adeleke Defends Actions
Governor Adeleke defended the legality and transparency of the electoral process, asserting that the state electoral body followed due process. “We are on the side of the law within the context of the rule of law and the constitution,” he stated. He urged the new officials to focus on good governance and to align with the PDP’s development agenda.
APC Reinstates Officials, Calls for Security Measures
The APC has instructed its reinstated chairmen and councillors to resume duties immediately, citing the Court of Appeal judgment as the basis for their legitimacy. Kola Olabisi, APC Director of Media and Information, labeled contrary reports as “fake news” and urged the officials to take up their responsibilities without delay.
The APC also called on security agencies, including the police, DSS, and Civil Defence Corps, to ensure peace and prevent violence at the local government offices.
Support and Criticism
The PDP Governors’ Forum praised the election as a demonstration of the people’s power and the PDP’s popularity in Osun State. Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, along with Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, supported Adeleke’s actions and urged the APC to seek legal redress.
Conversely, public policy expert Mallam Sulayman Nafiu condemned the election process, describing it as a “shameless mockery of democracy.” A coalition of election observers also criticized the role of security agencies, accusing the police of bias.
Tension and Future Implications
With both the PDP-backed and APC-reinstated officials laying claim to the local government positions, Osun State remains on edge. Governor Adeleke assured his supporters of a peaceful judicial resolution, while the APC remained steadfast.
Political analysts warn that unless the courts provide a clear resolution, the ongoing power tussle could escalate, impacting the state’s security and governance.
