Osun Governor Challenges FG, Confirms LG Elections for Tomorrow
By Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reaffirmed that the local government elections scheduled for tomorrow will proceed as planned under the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) despite opposition from the Federal Government.
The governor made this declaration while receiving a delegation of civil society groups who arrived in the state to monitor the elections.
Governor Adeleke emphasized that Osun voters are eager to exercise their democratic rights and expressed satisfaction with OSSIEC’s level of preparedness.
“I welcome you all to Osun State. Our people are ready for elections tomorrow and are eager to choose their chairmen and councillors,” he stated.
“OSSIEC has done an impressive job based on the reports I’ve received. Several political parties are participating, and I believe the process will be free, fair, and competitive,” Adeleke added.
The governor urged all stakeholders, including political parties and national actors, to uphold democratic principles and avoid any unlawful actions.
“For me and my people, we stand by the rule of law, not illegal self-help. The elections will be held, and the outcome will fast-track development at the grassroots level. I urge all residents to remain peaceful because Osun is a state of peace and progress.”
FG’s Opposition and Legal Controversy
Meanwhile, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, has urged Governor Adeleke to halt the planned elections. His appeal follows violent clashes between supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and security operatives after sacked local government chairmen and councillors attempted to reclaim their offices.
Fagbemi referenced a recent Court of Appeal ruling, which overturned a previous judgment that had removed the APC-elected local government officials. He called on Adeleke to respect the court’s decision and reinstate the dismissed officials.
“I appeal to His Excellency, Governor Adeleke, to uphold the rule of law and not instigate unnecessary violence in Osun State. Nobody benefits from violence,” Fagbemi stated.
“It is therefore imperative for Governor Adeleke to direct OSSIEC to suspend the planned local government elections.”
What’s Next for Osun?
As tensions rise between the state and federal authorities, all eyes are on Osun State to see if the elections will proceed or if the legal battle will force a postponement. With both sides standing their ground, the next few hours will be crucial in determining the fate of the Osun local government elections.