Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has declared that there will be no postponement of the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025, despite the ongoing political tensions in the state. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
Speaking in a statewide broadcast on Thursday from Osogbo, Adeleke reassured residents that the crisis stemming from the forceful takeover of local government secretariats by court-sacked All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmen and councilors had been contained. He called on political actors to embrace lawful means of addressing disputes and urged the people of Osun to participate in the elections peacefully.
“Osun State has returned to normalcy as one of the most peaceful states in the federation,” the governor said. “I commend our people for heeding my directive to stay away from local government secretariats during the crisis. That compliance prevented further confrontation and casualties.”
The political turmoil began when APC chairmen and councilors, previously removed from office by a court ruling, attempted to forcibly reclaim their positions. Adeleke condemned their actions, stressing that any party seeking reinstatement must do so through legal channels.
“If you have a genuine court order, follow the proper enforcement procedures,” he said. “There is nowhere in the said judgment that a reinstatement order was issued. The ruling that removed these APC officials is still valid, and their appeal was dismissed by the Court of Appeal.”
Adeleke accused the sacked officials of resorting to self-help, which he described as illegal and unacceptable. He assured citizens that his government would not allow political violence to derail governance in the state.
“Our government has thoroughly reviewed the judgment in question, and we have sought expert legal interpretation,” he stated. “We are confident that the courts will ultimately resolve the matter in accordance with the law.”
The governor also expressed faith in President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to democratic principles and the rule of law.
“We trust in President Tinubu’s dedication to upholding the constitution. He will not support any attempt to subvert the legal process,” Adeleke asserted.
He urged all registered voters to exercise their civic rights in the upcoming elections while maintaining peace.
“I encourage all eligible voters to come out and cast their ballots on Saturday,” he said. “Democracy thrives when people participate in governance peacefully and responsibly.”
The elections are expected to be a crucial test for Adeleke’s administration, which has faced stiff opposition from the APC since assuming office. Observers believe the poll outcome could shape the political landscape of Osun State ahead of future contests.
Meanwhile, security agencies have been placed on high alert to prevent any further attempts to disrupt the electoral process. Residents are hopeful that the polls will proceed without violence, allowing the democratic process to take its course.
With the governor’s firm stance and the judiciary’s role in resolving disputes, all eyes are now on Osun as the state prepares for a decisive local government election.
