Tensions have flared between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, over the recent local government elections in Osun State, sparking heated debates on legality and governance.
The APC has called on the Federal Government to withhold allocations to Osun’s local governments, condemning Governor Ademola Adeleke’s inauguration of new council chairmen as unconstitutional. The party insists that Adeleke disregarded a valid Court of Appeal judgment that reinstated sacked council officials until October 2025.
APC spokesperson, Felix Morka, described the February 22 elections as a “disgraceful sham” and accused Adeleke of violating Section 7(1) of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees democratically elected local councils. “The swearing-in of these officials is a reckless act and a clear contempt of court,” Morka said, urging Adeleke to seek redress through the Supreme Court rather than conducting “illegal” polls.
In a swift response, Governor Makinde, present at the swearing-in ceremony, criticized the APC’s stance, warning against plunging Osun into chaos. “We don’t want a return to the ‘wild, wild west’ era,” Makinde declared, emphasizing the need to respect the rule of law and avoid self-help tactics.
Governor Adeleke defended the election process, asserting that the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission followed due process. “The newly elected officials have the people’s mandate, and we are on the side of the law,” Adeleke stated, while urging the officials to focus on community development and good governance.
Despite the escalating political drama, Adeleke advised the new council leaders to avoid occupying secretariats currently held by previously sacked officials, vowing to seek legal means to enforce the court’s ruling.
As tensions rise, the legitimacy of Osun’s local government leadership remains at the center of a deepening political rift, with both sides standing firm on their positions.
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