Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on Sunday, formally inaugurated the newly elected local government chairmen and councillors, advising them to prioritise governance and avoid conflicts over council secretariats.
Speaking during the event in Osogbo on Sunday, February 23, Adeleke described the swearing-in as a significant step in the state’s democratic journey.
He stressed that the election process adhered to all necessary legal requirements, despite ongoing legal contentions.
“We are gathered here to finalise a democratic process that required great effort and dedication from all of us,” Adeleke stated.
Before delivering his main address, the governor requested a moment of silence in memory of those who lost their lives in what he referred to as the “unlawful APC takeover of local government secretariats.”
He reiterated that the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission had meticulously followed all legal frameworks leading up to the election.
“The electoral body had issued a proper notice of election a year ago. I am confident that all necessary rules and procedures were observed, culminating in the emergence of new local government leaders,” he noted.
Acknowledging legal disputes surrounding the poll, Adeleke maintained that his administration had acted within constitutional boundaries.
“It is reassuring that the facts are now public knowledge, and we remain confident that our actions align with the law and democratic principles,” he added.
Adeleke urged the newly elected officials to concentrate on improving their communities through effective governance.
“You are entrusted with the responsibility of delivering good governance within your respective local governments,” he emphasised.
“I encourage you to draft developmental plans in line with the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) manifesto. As our government continues to reshape the state, I urge you to be proactive agents of progress,” he said.
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He expressed appreciation to Osun residents for their unwavering support, reassuring them of his administration’s commitment to their well-being.
“The people of Osun showed remarkable resilience and dedication to democracy by voting overwhelmingly for our party, despite various obstacles. We will not let you down. Your welfare remains our top priority,” he pledged.
The governor also lauded OSIEC, security personnel, and government officials for ensuring the election’s smooth execution.
Adeleke also expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for preventing what he described as attempts to destabilise the state.
“I must acknowledge Mr. President, Senator Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his role in ensuring stability. I sincerely appreciate him for resisting efforts by certain elements to throw Osun into turmoil,” Adeleke remarked.
The governor strongly advised the newly sworn-in officials to avoid any forceful takeover of local government secretariats, citing an ongoing judicial process.
“I urge you and your councillors to refrain from any attempt to assume control of the council secretariats to prevent clashes with individuals whom the police have aided in occupying these offices unlawfully,” Adeleke cautioned.
Referring to a court ruling that had declared vacancies in both chairmanship and councillorship seats before the February 22 election, he reassured that legal avenues would be used to reclaim the offices from unauthorised occupants.
“Patience and adherence to the rule of law should be your guiding principles,” he advised.
Adeleke then officially announced the swearing-in of the newly elected officials.
“With this declaration, I, Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, the Executive Governor of Osun State, hereby officiate the swearing-in of all elected local government chairmen across Osun State. Congratulations, and may God bless you,” he concluded.