Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has reiterated his commitment to holding the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, despite an appeal from the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, to suspend the polls.
Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, emphasized that democracy is guided by the rule of law and that no individual has the authority to override the courts. “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. 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”.
The Attorney-General of the Federation had warned that holding the election would be invalid and a violation of the Constitution, citing the recent Court of Appeal ruling in Akure, which reinstated the sacked council chairmen whose tenure remains valid until October 2025.
Fagbemi cautioned against any actions that could lead to violence, urging Adeleke to uphold the rule of law and maintain peace in the state.
Adeleke’s insistence on holding the election has sparked concerns among residents, with some expressing fears about the potential for violence.
However, the governor’s spokesperson has assured that the election will be peaceful and that the people of Osun are prepared to exercise their democratic rights.
The Osun State Independent Electoral Commission has also unveiled voting materials and assured the electorate of a credible and transparent process.
