Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has warned the All Progressives Congress (APC) against causing unrest in Osun State, urging them to follow due process instead of resorting to self-help.
Speaking in Osogbo during the swearing-in of newly elected local government chairmen, Makinde, who represented the PDP Governors’ Forum, emphasized that Osun should not be thrown into crisis over political disputes.
“We must learn from history and avoid actions that could throw Osun into turmoil. If anyone has grievances, the judiciary is there to provide redress,” Makinde stated, adding that PDP governors are committed to governance and delivering democracy’s dividends.
He further warned against enforcing court judgments through illegal means, saying, “If anybody has a judgment, there is a procedure for enforcement. It is illegal to resort to self-help.”
The PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, was also present to show solidarity with Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Governor Adeleke, in his address, reaffirmed the legitimacy of the local government elections and assured Osun residents that due process was followed.
“The journey to this moment began a year ago when the state electoral body issued election notices. The process was conducted in accordance with extant laws, leading to the emergence of new local government chairmen and councillors,” Adeleke stated.
He acknowledged the legal disputes surrounding the election but expressed confidence that his administration acted within the confines of the constitution.
“I congratulate all newly elected council chairmen and councillors. You have a mandate to deliver good governance at the grassroots. I urge you to align your administration with the PDP’s development agenda,” he added.
Despite the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Adeleke directed the new chairmen and councillors to refrain from forcefully occupying local government secretariats.
“An Osun State High Court had already affirmed vacancies in all local governments before the February 22 elections. We will rely on the judiciary to peacefully remove those illegally occupying the secretariats,” he said.
He also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for resisting pressure to intervene in Osun’s political crisis, assuring him of his administration’s commitment to the rule of law.
In his vote of thanks, Ifelodun Local Government Chairman, Hon. Sarafadeen Awotunde, appreciated the electorate, PDP, and the state government for ensuring a credible electoral process.
“On behalf of my colleagues, we pledge our loyalty to the people and the constitution. We will not fail the electorate,” he assured.
