Oyo Gov Makinde Issues Warning to APC Over Actions in Osun, Urges Court Process Adherence

Reported by Ojo Racheal

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has firmly cautioned the All Progressives Congress (APC) against any attempts to undermine democracy in Osun State, urging the party to respect the rule of law and follow the legal process regarding the recent local government elections.

Speaking at the inauguration of 30 newly-elected local government chairmen in Osun, Makinde emphasized the importance of resolving political disputes through the courts rather than resorting to violence or self-help.

His remarks come amid growing political tension in Osun, where recent elections have sparked controversy and unrest.

According to Ripples Nigeria, Makinde highlighted the tragic violence that occurred in Osun, resulting in the loss of lives, and reiterated the need for peaceful resolution and respect for the democratic process.

Drawing from the lessons of history, he expressed his hope that the region would avoid a repeat of the violent past that once plagued the southwest, stressing the importance of unity and responsible governance.

Governor Makinde called on the APC to uphold the rule of law and avoid using federal power to meddle with democratic processes. He emphasized that no individual or group should bypass the legal system, even with a court judgment, as there is a clear and defined legal process that must be followed. "The rule of law must be respected," he declared.

He further cautioned that access to federal resources or influence should never be used to undermine or sidestep the established procedures. "Our nation operates within a federal framework, and every level of government must remain committed to ensuring justice and upholding democracy."

The Oyo State governor also took the opportunity to congratulate the newly-elected chairmen and urged them to fulfill their campaign promises. “Let me congratulate the newly-minted chairmen and chairpersons of all the 30 local government areas of Osun State. Don’t forget the promises you made to the people during your campaign.

This is an opportunity for you to deliver to the people at the grassroots level. My prayer is that with the support of your governor and the state government, you will deliver.”

He encouraged the new leaders to see this position as a stepping stone. “For some of you, this will be your stepping stone to higher positions because the reward for hard work is more work.”

Makinde was accompanied by the chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed. Both leaders said their presence was to show solidarity with Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and the people of the state.

“The chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and I decided to come here to witness this momentous occasion and to show solidarity with the government and the people of Osun State,” Makinde told the gathering.

The leadup to the Osun local government polls was fraught with conflict. Although the PDP swept the elections, winning all chairmanship seats, the APC dismissed the exercise, claiming it lacked credibility.

Security and legal concerns also clouded the elections. The Nigeria Police and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, had advised the Osun State government not to proceed with the polls. Despite the warnings, Governor Adeleke insisted the election would go ahead, and on Friday, he affirmed there was no going back.