Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has cautioned the All Progressives Congress (APC) against taking the law into its own hands in Osun State, warning that any grievances over the recent local government elections must be addressed through legal channels.
Speaking in Osogbo alongside Bauchi State Governor and PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman Bala Mohammed, Makinde stressed that the opposition should seek legal redress rather than instigating unrest.
“If anybody has a judgment, there is a procedure for enforcement of court decisions. It is illegal to resort to self-help,” Makinde declared.
The PDP Governors’ Forum issued the warning amid rising tensions in Osun following the swearing-in of newly elected local government chairmen by Governor Ademola Adeleke. The governors were in the state to show solidarity with Adeleke and reaffirm the party’s commitment to upholding democracy.
Newly Elected LG Officials Sworn In
Governor Adeleke officially inaugurated the newly elected local government chairmen, who subsequently swore in their councillors. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to the rule of law and due process in conducting the elections.
“We are on the side of the law within the context of the rule of law and the constitution,” Adeleke said.
The governor highlighted that the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) had followed all legal procedures before the elections, dismissing claims that the process was flawed.
“The state electoral body issued due notice of the election a year ago. I know the commission complied with all extant rules and procedures, which led to the emergence of new local government chairmen and councillors,” he explained.
Call for Good Governance
Adeleke charged the newly elected officials to prioritize community development and effective governance.
“You have the mandate to deliver on good governance in your respective local governments. As our government is transforming the state for the better, I call on you to be agents of change and deliverers of the dividends of democracy,” he urged.
He also commended Osun residents for their support, promising to uphold their trust.
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“Osun people demonstrated courage and passion in exercising their voting rights. We will not fail you. People’s welfare will continue to be our watchword,” he assured.
Acknowledging Tinubu’s Role in Stability
In a surprising turn, Adeleke expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for rejecting alleged attempts by certain political forces to destabilize Osun.
“I am most grateful to Mr. President for rejecting efforts by some forces to plunge Osun into chaos. I assure Mr. President of our commitment to the rule of law and the constitution for conflict resolution and governance,” he stated.
Court-Backed Transition
Amid concerns about a leadership crisis at the local government level, Adeleke urged the newly elected officials to avoid forceful takeovers of council secretariats, citing a court ruling affirming vacancies in local government positions before the elections.
“We will rely on the judiciary to ensure a peaceful removal of those illegally occupying the local government secretariats,” he assured.
New Leaders Pledge Loyalty
Speaking on behalf of the newly sworn-in chairmen, Ifelodun Local Government Chairman Hon. Sarafadeen Awotunde pledged commitment to the people and the constitution.
“On behalf of my colleagues, we pledge our loyalty to the people and the constitution. We will not fail the electorate,” Awotunde vowed.
With political tensions rising, all eyes remain on Osun as the legal and political battles surrounding the local government election unfold.