Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has directed newly sworn-in local government chairmen and councillors to stay away from their respective secretariats to prevent clashes with those occupying the offices illegally.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony in Osogbo, Adeleke emphasized that his administration would not engage in forceful takeovers but would instead rely on the judiciary to uphold the rule of law.
“An Osun State High Court had affirmed the vacancies in both the chairmen and councillors’ positions before your election on February 22, 2025. We will, therefore, rely on the judiciary to ensure a peaceful removal of those illegally occupying the local government secretariats,” Adeleke stated.
He assured the new council officials that the electoral process followed due legal procedures, stressing that his government remained committed to the rule of law.
“We are all aware of the journey that led to today. The state electoral body issued due notice of election a year ago, following all extant rules and procedures, which led to the emergence of new local government chairmen and councillors,” he said.
While urging the newly elected officials to prioritize good governance and grassroots development, Adeleke charged them to align their programs with the manifesto of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“You have the mandate to deliver good governance in your respective local governments. As our government is transforming the state for the better, I call on you to be agents of change and development,” he said.
The event was attended by PDP Governors, including Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, who came in solidarity with Adeleke.
Speaking at the event, Makinde warned the All Progressives Congress (APC) against plunging Osun into crisis, urging aggrieved parties to seek legal redress instead of resorting to self-help.
“We must learn from history and avoid actions that could throw Osun into turmoil. If anybody has a judgment, there is a procedure for enforcement. It is illegal to resort to self-help,” Makinde cautioned.
Governor Adeleke also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for resisting attempts to interfere in Osun’s political affairs, assuring him of his administration’s commitment to upholding constitutional processes.
Delivering a vote of thanks, Ifelodun Local Government Chairman, Hon. Sarafadeen Awotunde, expressed gratitude to the electorate, the PDP, and the state government.
“On behalf of my colleagues, we pledge our loyalty to the people and the constitution. We will not fail the electorate,” he assured.
