Osun State Govt, Police clash over Local Government polls

Tension is rising in Osun State as the state government and the Nigeria Police Force clash over the planned local government elections scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025.

The disagreement stems from concerns over security threats and legal complexities surrounding the polls.

The Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has urged the Osun State Government to shelve the contentious election to prevent potential bloodshed.

In a statement issued on Friday night through the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP revealed that the police have received credible intelligence indicating a high likelihood of violence and significant security threats if the election proceeds.

“These reports gathered from joint intelligence gathering reveal that various groups, including political elements and other interest parties, are mobilizing to instigate unrest, disrupt public peace, and undermine the democratic order,” the statement read.

Egbetokun emphasized that the Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, is prepared to take decisive action to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

“However, he advised that suspending the election would be in the best interest of public safety and national stability.

“Given this imminent threat to security, the NPF strongly advises the Osun State Government to suspend the planned elections forthwith in the interest of public safety and national stability,” the IGP stated.

The police also highlighted the legal complexities surrounding the election, referencing a recent Court of Appeal judgment that nullified a previous Federal High Court decision.

“It is imperative to consider the legal clarification by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice on the extant judicial pronouncements concerning Local Government administration in Ogun State,” the statement added.

In response, the Osun State Government has maintained its stance on proceeding with the election, citing a ruling by the State High Court.

Justice Adeyinka Aderibigbe, presiding over a case filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against the Ogun State Independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC), declared vacancies in all local government areas and directed the commission to conduct the election as scheduled.

“I have carefully perused the two judgments, and I agree with the position of the claimant’s counsel that there is no impediment to the election fixed by the defendant for Saturday, 22/02/2025,” Justice Aderibigbe ruled.

The Osun State Government has accused the police of overstepping their mandate and interfering in the democratic process.

A government statement stated, “the judiciary has spoken, and we are bound by the rule of law. The election will proceed as planned, and we call on all stakeholders to respect the court’s decision.”

Meanwhile, security has been tightened across the state, with heavily armed police officers deployed to strategic locations, including the OSIEC headquarters.

Residents have expressed mixed reactions, with some calling for the election to be postponed to avoid violence, while others insist on their right to vote.

As the standoff continues, stakeholders are urging both parties to prioritize peace and the rule of law.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to maintaining order but warned that proceeding with the election under the current conditions could escalate tensions.

“The NPF reiterates its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that Nigeria’s democratic processes are upheld in accordance with the law,” the IGP’s statement concluded.

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