Governor Ademola Adeleke has reaffirmed that the Osun State, Nigeria, local government elections will proceed as scheduled on Saturday, February 22, despite warnings from the Federal Government.
The governor made this declaration on Friday while receiving a delegation of civil society groups who visited the state to monitor the elections. Adeleke expressed confidence in the preparedness of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) and the enthusiasm of the electorate.
“I welcome you all to Osun State. Our people are prepared for elections tomorrow. They yearn to have their choices as chairmen and councillors. OSSIEC has also done a marvellous job in preparations, and several political parties are participating. I believe there will be a level-playing ground for all,” Adeleke stated.
Responding to legal controversies surrounding the elections, Adeleke emphasized that democracy is guided by the rule of law, warning against any attempt to undermine the process.
“My advice to all parties, including local and national stakeholders, is to abide by democratic norms. As for me and my people, we stand by the rule of law, not illegal self-help. The election will hold, and its outcome will fast-track development at the local level. I urge our people to remain peaceful. Osun is a truly peaceful state,” he added.
However, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, had earlier cautioned against conducting fresh local government elections in Osun State. He argued that the tenure of the current council chairmen and councillors, elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC), will not expire until October 2025, making any new election before then unlawful.
Despite this, Adeleke remains resolute in his stance, setting the stage for a potential legal and political showdown over the election’s validity.
