Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has issued a strong directive urging all residents, regardless of political affiliation, to stay away from local government secretariats to prevent further violence and destruction. The call comes amid escalating tension and clashes between political factions, particularly following the alleged attempt by the opposition APC to forcibly take control of local government offices.
Speaking from the state capital, Osogbo, on Friday, February 16, Adeleke condemned the unlawful actions by the All Progressives Congress (APC) and their supposed hired thugs. In his statement, the Governor explained that the situation was exacerbated by the ongoing strike by local government workers, leaving these offices vulnerable to occupation.
“Only security agencies should be allowed to man the local government secretariats at this time,” Adeleke said, emphasizing that the state’s residents, including political actors, must steer clear of these areas to avoid unnecessary conflict.
In the statement, Adeleke also expressed heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims of the violence that broke out during the illegal takeover attempts by APC supporters. According to the Governor, the unrest has resulted in a tragic loss of life, including five members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), the ruling party in Osun.
“The bloodshed must stop,” Adeleke pleaded. “We cannot continue down this path of violence. Our people have suffered enough, and the time for peace and stability is now.”
Reports indicate that the violence primarily unfolded in the rural regions of Osun, with five PDP members losing their lives and many others injured. Two victims hailed from Iragbiji in Boripe Local Government Area, while two others were killed in Ola Oluwa Local Government Area. Another member was tragically murdered in Ikire.
“We are mourning the lives lost in senseless violence. The people of Osun deserve peace,” Adeleke remarked. “We will ensure that those responsible for the violence face justice.”
Security agencies have since been deployed to safeguard the local government secretariats, and the Governor assured residents that their safety would be prioritized. “I have directed security agencies to secure all local government offices and ensure that no further illegal activities take place in these areas,” Adeleke said.
In an address to Osun citizens, the Governor emphasized the importance of unity and calm, urging both political parties and residents to avoid further confrontation. His appeal to the public was clear: “We cannot afford to let political differences turn deadly. The future of Osun must be rooted in peace and collaboration, not division and violence.”
The crisis has also sparked widespread condemnation from citizens, who have expressed concern over the rising level of political violence. “It’s appalling,” said Titi Alabi, a resident of Osogbo. “Our local councils should be places of service, not battlegrounds for political ambitions. The state government must take action to bring the culprits to justice.”
The struggle for control over local government offices is not a new issue in Osun. Previous efforts by opposition parties to influence governance at the local level have led to violent protests, and many citizens have expressed dissatisfaction with the way political parties handle local elections.
For now, the focus remains on preventing further bloodshed, with Adeleke insisting that the state government will take all necessary measures to ensure peace is restored. The Governor also reiterated that local government workers, who have been on strike over unresolved labor issues, would be provided with support once stability returns to the region.
“Our focus is on the safety of our people. Once things calm down, we will address the concerns of the workers,” Adeleke stated. He further promised to uphold the integrity of the local government system and strengthen the state’s governance structures in the aftermath of the crisis.
As security forces take control of the local government secretariats, Osun residents are anxiously awaiting the next steps. Some fear that this episode of political violence could signal deeper unrest, while others hope that Adeleke’s decisive leadership will lead the state back to peace.
