Despite legal disputes and security concerns, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke participated in the ongoing local government election on Saturday, casting his vote in his hometown of Ede. The election has been marred by controversy, stemming from a legal battle between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).
The dispute escalated following a Court of Appeal ruling on February 10, 2025, which reinstated local government chairmen and councillors previously removed by a Federal High Court judgment in November 2022. The officials, elected under former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, had their positions nullified by Justice Nathaniel Ayo-Emmanuel, but the appellate court’s decision reversed that ruling, reigniting tensions. The situation turned violent earlier in the week, with clashes between APC and PDP supporters resulting in the deaths of at least six people.
Despite the Court of Appeal’s judgment, Governor Adeleke insisted on proceeding with the elections, a move strongly opposed by the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi. The AGF warned on Thursday that conducting the elections would be unconstitutional, as the reinstated officials’ tenure remains valid until October 2025. He stated that any attempt to hold fresh elections before then would be “null and void” and undermine both the judiciary and the Nigerian Constitution.
In contrast, an Osun State High Court sitting in Ilesa ruled on Friday that the election should proceed as planned. Justice A. Aderibigbe upheld an earlier Federal High Court ruling that declared leadership positions in the 30 local government areas vacant, directing the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) to go ahead with the electoral process. The court also mandated security agencies, including the Nigeria Police, Department of State Services (DSS), Nigerian Army, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), to ensure order during the election.
However, on Friday, the police withdrew from the exercise, citing security concerns and the legal complexities surrounding the poll.
After casting his vote, Governor Adeleke expressed confidence in the process and urged residents to participate peacefully. Despite the ongoing political and legal uncertainty, the election continues, with stakeholders closely watching its outcome and potential implications.
