Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reaffirmed that the local government elections scheduled for Saturday will proceed as planned, despite advice from the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, urging him to suspend the polls.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Fagbemi, in a letter on Thursday, advised Governor Adeleke to comply with a Court of Appeal ruling in Akure, which reinstated the All Progressives Congress (APC) local government chairmen and councilors sacked in 2022 by the Federal High Court in Osogbo.
However, in a statement issued on Friday by his spokesperson, Malam Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke insisted that the elections would go on as scheduled, emphasizing his commitment to the rule of law.
“Democracy is governed by the rule of law, and nobody can assume the authority of the court. As for me and my people, we stand by the rule of law, not illegal self-help,” Adeleke stated.
The governor urged all stakeholders, including local and national political actors, to uphold democratic principles and maintain peace throughout the process.
“The election will hold, and the outcome will fast-track development at the local level. I urge our people to remain peaceful. Osun is truly a peaceful state,” he added.
Adeleke also expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness by the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), noting that reports indicated a smooth electoral process ahead.
“I welcome you all to Osun State. Our people are prepared to choose their chairmen and councilors tomorrow. OSSIEC has done a marvelous job in preparation, and I believe there will be a level playing ground for all parties to test their popularity at the polls,” he stated.
