Senator Ajibola Basiru, the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has issued a stern warning to Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and his administration.
He cautioned the governor against statements that could destabilise the state, urging stakeholders to intervene before matters escalate.
In a statement released in Abuja on Sunday, Basiru expressed alarm over recent remarks by Adeleke’s Chief of Staff, Kazeem Akinleye.
Akinleye had reportedly made comments suggesting that citizens must either support Adeleke’s re-election in 2026 or leave the state.
Basiru described these comments as reckless, inflammatory, and a direct threat to democracy.
He warned that such rhetoric could incite violence and jeopardise the peace Osun State has enjoyed.
Basiru pointed out that Osun people are known for their peaceful nature and resilience in the face of challenges.
He stated that no administration or political party has the right to intimidate the electorate.
“Osun people are known for their peaceful disposition and will not succumb to intimidation from a government that has consistently failed to deliver on its promises,” Basiru remarked.
He accused the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)-led administration of using threats to mask its incompetence and lack of performance.
The APC leader criticised Governor Adeleke’s government for neglecting critical areas like youth empowerment and education.
He alleged that the government has ignored calls to address staff shortages in public schools by recruiting teachers.
Basiru claimed that in two years, Adeleke’s administration has failed to implement meaningful governance.
He warned that Osun citizens are politically conscious and will not tolerate another wave of violence similar to what occurred during the 2022 and 2023 elections.
Basiru called on security agencies, including the Inspector General of Police and the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), to investigate Akinleye’s comments.
He urged the authorities to summon Adeleke’s Chief of Staff to explain his statement, which many interpret as a threat to opposition members.
“The primary duty of any responsible government is to safeguard the lives and property of its citizens, not instil fear or subject them to intimidation,” Basiru emphasised.
As Osun prepares for the 2026 gubernatorial election, tensions between the APC and PDP continue to rise.
Basiru’s statement highlights the deepening divide between the two major political parties in the state.
Observers say the remarks from Adeleke’s camp could escalate the already charged political environment.
Basiru warned Adeleke to remember that violence does not guarantee victory, urging him to focus on governance rather than political threats.
“No political party holds a monopoly on violence,” he reminded.
The 2022 and 2023 electoral periods in Osun State were marred by reports of violence and voter intimidation.
Observers noted clashes between supporters of the APC and PDP during campaign rallies and voting.
The memories of those turbulent times remain fresh for many residents, who fear a repeat in 2026 if the current rhetoric continues unchecked.
Basiru stressed that Osun people will have their say in 2026, regardless of attempts to influence them through threats.
He believes the electorate will judge the PDP-led government based on its performance, or lack thereof.