The Osun Democrats, a non-partisan group advocating for democratic governance, has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently intervene in the escalating local government crisis in Osun State. The group, based in Abuja, warned that the ongoing political tensions could undermine the democratic process and destabilize the state if not addressed promptly.
In a statement issued on Sunday night by it’s spokesperson, Adegoke Adeyemi in Abuja, the Osun Democrats expressed concern over the standoff between Governor Ademola Adeleke and the All Progressives Congress (APC) regarding the reinstatement of local government chairmen and councillors. The group emphasized that the electoral process, which has already begun with major political parties campaigning for the scheduled local government elections, must be allowed to proceed unhindered.
“The democratic process in Osun State is at a critical juncture. The ongoing crisis threatens to derail the local government elections and undermine the will of the people. We urge President Bola Tinubu, as a celebrated democrat who has always stood for the rule of law and due process, to intervene and ensure that nothing goes wrong with the process,” the statement read.
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The Osun Democrats reminded President Tinubu of the historical significance of Osun State in Nigeria’s democratic journey. “The collapse of the Second Republic began in what is now Osun State, making it imperative for Mr President to act swiftly to prevent a repeat of history. Your intervention is crucial to safeguarding our democracy and ensuring that the people’s voices are heard through free and fair elections,” the group stated.
The statement also called on Governor Adeleke to uphold his commitment to democratic principles. “As a governor who has always championed the democratic process, you have a duty to ensure that the local government elections proceed without interference. The people of Osun State deserve the opportunity to choose their leaders at the grassroots level, and any attempt to disrupt this process would be a disservice to democracy,” the group added.
The crisis stems from a court ruling allegedly reinstating local government chairmen and councillors elected under the APC in 2022. Governor Adeleke has accused his predecessor, Adegboyega Oyetola, now the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, of using security agencies to enforce the court order, a move he claims is aimed at inciting unrest in the state.
The APC, however, has dismissed Adeleke’s allegations, insisting that the court’s decision must be respected. The party has urged the governor to seek legal redress if dissatisfied with the ruling rather than resorting to what it describes as “blackmail.”
Amid the political faceoff, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Osun State has withdrawn its members from local government offices, citing concerns over the safety of workers. The NLC’s decision has further heightened tensions, leaving the state in a precarious situation.
The Osun Democrats emphasized the need for all parties to prioritize peace and the rule of law. “The people of Osun State are watching closely. They deserve leaders who will put their interests above political rivalries. We call on all stakeholders to embrace dialogue and allow the electoral process to proceed without hindrance,” the group stated.
The group also urged security agencies to remain neutral and ensure the safety of all citizens during this critical period. “The role of security agencies is to protect lives and property, not to be drawn into political disputes. We trust that they will uphold their mandate and ensure a peaceful environment for the elections,” the statement added.
The local government crisis in Osun State is seen as a litmus test for Nigeria’s democracy. The Osun Democrats warned that failure to resolve the crisis could have far-reaching consequences, not only for the state but for the entire country.
“Democracy is not just about elections; it is about respecting the rule of law, upholding the will of the people, and ensuring that governance is conducted with transparency and accountability. The situation in Osun State is a reminder that we must remain vigilant in defending these principles,” the group concluded.
The Osun Democrats’ call for President Tinubu’s intervention underscores the urgency of the situation. As the clock ticks, the hope is that swift and decisive action will save Osun State from further turmoil and reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to democracy.
