Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Federal Government has called on Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, to suspend the Local Government elections scheduled for Saturday, citing legal and security concerns.
Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justic, Lateef Fagbemi SAN, in a statement on Thursday night, said that the law is clear on the ongoing dispute between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The crisis, which has led to violence and casualties, stemmed from attempts by previously sacked local government officials to reclaim their positions following a Court of Appeal judgment that nullified the order used by Adeleke to remove them.
Fagbemi clarified that the Court of Appeal’s ruling effectively reinstated the removed local government officials, rendering Adeleke’s dissolution of their offices unlawful.
“The judgment of the Court of Appeal had by implication effectively restored the elected Local Government officials removed by the Federal High Court, back to their offices,” he stated.
He also attributed the recent violent clashes in Osun State to resistance against the return of these officials, urging Governor Adeleke to maintain law and order.
According to him, “Nobody benefits from violence. It is, therefore, of utmost importance for Governor Adeleke to advise OSIEC to shelve the idea of proceeding with any Local Government Election now.”
The Attorney-General said despite the legal ruling, Adeleke remains adamant about conducting the elections as planned, arguing that nothing should obstruct the democratic process. However, Fagbemi pointed out that the Supreme Court’s recent judgment affirming local government autonomy further strengthens the need for a smooth, non-violent transition.
He urged the governor to uphold the constitutional order and ensure a peaceful resolution, stating, “The constitutional order which existed before the dissolution must be restored immediately.” The Attorney-General also expressed readiness to engage in dialogue with Adeleke for the sake of peace in Osun State.
