Adeleke Swears in Osun LG Chairmen despite Federal warnings

Despite warnings from the federal government and security agencies, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke swore in newly elected local government chairmen on Sunday. The chairmen, in turn, inaugurated their councillors across the state, a move that has sparked legal and political debates. While the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum hailed the election as a victory for democracy, critics questioned its legitimacy, calling it a challenge to the rule of law.  

Defending the process, Adeleke maintained that the election followed due process, beginning over a year ago with official notice from the state electoral body. “We are on the side of the law within the context of the constitution,” he assured. He urged the newly elected officials to focus on governance and pledged his administration’s continued commitment to the people of Osun.  

Opposition voices, however, strongly disagreed. Public policy expert Mallam Sulayman Nafiu condemned the election as a “mockery of democracy,” while reports emerged of police officers aiding previous officials in holding onto local government secretariats. In response, Adeleke directed the new officials to avoid the secretariats for now, emphasizing that the courts would oversee a lawful transition.  

The PDP Governors’ Forum defended Adeleke, describing the election as proof that power belongs to the people. “This is a referendum on Governor Adeleke’s leadership,” the forum stated, calling for unity and urging the newly elected officials to govern with fairness.  

Meanwhile, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde cautioned the opposition against plunging Osun into chaos, referencing the political crises of the past. Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony alongside Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, he insisted that legal channels, not force, should be used to settle disputes. “Resorting to self-help is illegal,” he warned.  

As tensions rise, the fate of the newly sworn-in officials may ultimately be determined in court. While Adeleke’s administration insists the process was legitimate, legal battles could decide whether these officials remain in office, leaving Osun’s political future uncertain.