In defiance of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi’s counsel, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has affirmed that the local government elections scheduled for Saturday will proceed as planned. This decision comes amidst legal disputes and recent unrest in the state.
Earlier this week, AGF Fagbemi advised Governor Adeleke to suspend the forthcoming elections, referencing a Court of Appeal ruling from 10 February 2025. This ruling nullified a previous Federal High Court judgment that had led to the removal of elected local government officials in 2022.
Fagbemi emphasized that the appellate court’s decision effectively reinstated these officials, whose terms are set to conclude in October 2025. He cautioned that proceeding with new elections could be deemed unconstitutional and might exacerbate tensions in the state.
Despite the AGF’s advice, Governor Adeleke remains resolute. In a statement released on Friday, he expressed confidence in the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission’s (OSSIEC) preparations and the electorate’s readiness to participate.
“Our people are prepared to choose their chairmen and councillors tomorrow,” Adeleke stated. He further commended OSSIEC for its diligent efforts, noting that multiple political parties are slated to participate, ensuring a competitive and fair electoral 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 is going to hold, and the outcome will bring fast-tracked development at the local level. I urge our people to remain peaceful. Osun is a truly peaceful state,” Adeleke noted.
The governor also addressed the recent violence that erupted earlier in the week, resulting in the tragic loss of six lives. The clashes were reportedly linked to attempts by reinstated All Progressives Congress (APC) chairpersons to resume duties, leading to confrontations with supporters of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Adeleke extended his condolences to the affected families and emphasized the importance of adhering to the rule of law to maintain peace. “The rule of law, through the judiciary, will eventually resolve the matter peacefully,” he remarked.
In response to the AGF’s concerns, the Osun State government, through Special Adviser on Legal Matters Nurudeen Kareem, issued a rejoinder.
The statement underscored the administration’s belief in the validity of the November 30, 2022, Federal High Court judgment, which nullified the previous local government elections.
Kareem emphasized that this judgment remains binding until overturned by a higher court, suggesting that the planned elections are both lawful and necessary.
