By Capital Watch Media
The ongoing political turmoil in Osun State over the control of local government councils has intensified, with the Inspector General of Police’s, IGP, tactical squad maintaining a firm presence at the secretariats.
A senior police source, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the squad deployed by IGP Kayode Egbetokun would remain in position for at least two months to ensure stability amid the crisis.
Tensions escalated after Governor Ademola Adeleke swore in new chairmen and councillors from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, following the February 22 local government elections.
The All Progressives Congress, APC, boycotted the election, citing a Court of Appeal ruling that reportedly reinstated APC local government chairmen removed in 2022.
Last week, the APC chairmen forcefully occupied several local government secretariats, claiming their reinstatement had legal backing.
Despite warnings from the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and IGP Egbetokun against conducting fresh elections, the Osun State government proceeded with the polls.
At the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Adeleke instructed the new PDP officials to refrain from resuming at the secretariats to avoid clashes.
Jamiu Olawumi, a former special adviser in Osun, stated that the APC would take legal steps to prevent PDP chairmen from accessing council funds.
“We will write to banks to notify them of the change in leadership and caution them against recognising the PDP officials,” Olawumi said.
He warned that any financial institution dealing with the PDP chairmen would face legal consequences.
Olawumi added that council workers would be directed to resume under the APC-led administration, backed by the court ruling.
The Osun PDP Director of Media, Oladele Bamiji, dismissed APC’s threats, describing them as mere posturing.
“There are legal processes in place, and any attempt to bypass them will lead to further legal action,” Bamiji stated.
He insisted that the newly elected officials had legitimate mandates and would respond appropriately to any obstruction.
Security operatives confirmed their deployment in Osogbo would continue indefinitely to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
During the swearing-in, Governor Adeleke reaffirmed his commitment to the rule of law and called for patience from the newly elected officials.
He expressed confidence in the judiciary’s ability to resolve the conflict peacefully.
The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State and former Osun Governor Olagunsoye Oyinlola.
Governor Makinde urged the new officials to focus on delivering grassroots development and avoid political distractions.
Meanwhile, the APC condemned the swearing-in, calling it a violation of the Court of Appeal’s judgment.
Felix Morka, APC National Publicity Secretary, accused Governor Adeleke of undermining judicial authority and inciting unrest.
The Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, OSSIEC, presented certificates of return to the newly elected officials, urging them to serve with integrity.
The PDP hailed the election’s success, describing it as a victory for democracy and the people’s will.
As the crisis continues, legal battles and political manoeuvring are expected to shape the future of local governance in Osun State.
