Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has rejected the advice of the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, to suspend the local government elections scheduled for Saturday.
Despite the AGF’s warning, Adeleke insisted that the elections would go ahead as planned.
In a statement issued on Friday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke reiterated his commitment to the rule of law, stressing that no individual, regardless of their position, could override court decisions.
His statement reflected a determination to proceed with the elections and the belief that the democratic process must be respected.
“My advice to all parties, including local and national stakeholders, is to abide by democratic norms,” the statement read. “As for me and my people, we stand by the rule of law, not illegal self-help.”
Adeleke reiterated his position that the election would take place as scheduled, calling it an important step towards local-level development.
He also appealed for a peaceful election process, underscoring that Osun is a state known for its tranquility.
“Election is going to hold, and the outcome will be a fast-tracked development at the local level.”
“I urge our people to remain peaceful. Osun is a truly peaceful state,” he added.
The AGF had earlier issued a statement on Thursday urging Adeleke to direct the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) to cancel the election, citing a recent ruling by the Court of Appeal in Akure.
The court had overturned a Federal High Court decision that nullified the previous local government elections held under former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola.
The ruling reinstated the council chairmen whose terms, according to the AGF, remain valid until October 2025.
Fagbemi warned that proceeding with the elections would not only be unconstitutional but also a violation of the law, as the tenure of the chairmen restored by the Court of Appeal judgment was still in effect.
He further cautioned Adeleke against actions that could spark unrest in the state and urged the governor to prioritize peace while upholding the rule of law.
This disagreement between Governor Adeleke and the AGF has sparked a renewed debate about the interpretation of the law and the political landscape in Osun State, as both sides stand firm in their positions.
