Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has issued a strong warning to the All Progressives Congress (APC) to avoid actions that could destabilise Osun State, urging all political actors to respect the rule of law and resolve disputes through legal channels. His comments came during a visit to Osogbo on Sunday, where he attended the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected local government chairmen in Osun.
Makinde, who was speaking on behalf of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, highlighted that the political climate in Osun must be one of peace and cooperation, with any disagreements being addressed through lawful means. He was joined at the event by Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, who is also the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum.
Makinde’s comments come at a time when political tensions in Osun have been rising. He called on the APC to avoid creating instability in the state and warned that issues should not be allowed to escalate into violence or unrest. According to the governor, the history of political conflicts in Nigeria teaches us that disputes should not be resolved on the streets, but through the judiciary.
“Osun should not be turned into a battleground over issues that can be resolved by the judiciary,” Makinde stated. He stressed that political actors must not take the law into their own hands, as this could lead to unnecessary chaos.
This message of caution is especially significant given the recent power struggle in Osun State, where political disputes between the ruling PDP and the opposition APC have been simmering for some time.
Makinde also reiterated his opposition to any attempts to undermine legal processes, saying that even when there are court judgments, it is essential that the proper legal procedures be followed. “Nobody should resort to self-help. Even if you have court judgments, there’s a process. Let the process go through,” he said, warning against the temptation to bypass the law.
The Oyo State governor’s call for legal adherence comes amid concerns that some political actors may be using unlawful tactics to settle scores or advance their political agendas. Makinde’s firm stance against such actions was a clear reminder that the rule of law should be the guiding principle in resolving any political disputes in Osun or across Nigeria.
“We do not want Wild Wild West,” Makinde continued. “They should stay away from this group. We just want to peacefully deliver dividends to our people.” His comments highlighted the PDP’s commitment to governance that promotes peace, progress, and the well-being of citizens, contrasting it with what he described as the chaotic and destructive approach that some political groups might adopt.
In his remarks, Governor Makinde also expressed concern over the potential abuse of federal influence in state matters. While the federal government has a significant role in the country’s politics, Makinde cautioned that federal might should not be used to impose political agendas on states.
“You cannot, because you have so-called federal might, want to propagate the process,” he stated. “This is a federal arrangement.” His comment was a clear message that state governments, like Osun, should be allowed to operate independently within the bounds of the law, free from undue external influence.
In his concluding remarks, Makinde extended congratulations to the newly sworn-in local government chairmen in Osun, wishing them success in their roles. His praise for the newly elected officials highlighted the PDP’s commitment to democracy and governance at all levels of government.
“We congratulate the newly sworn-in council chairmen and wish them success in their duties,” he said. “The PDP is committed to delivering good governance to our people, ensuring peace and stability in all the states we govern.”
The PDP, under Governor Ademola Adeleke, has faced strong opposition from the APC, and accusations of electoral malpractice and unfair practices have been a regular feature of political discourse in the state. With both parties aiming to gain the upper hand, Makinde’s comments serve as a call to avoid resorting to violence and to allow the courts and legal systems to resolve disputes.
