Osun Local Government Elections Proceed Despite Federal Opposition and Security Concerns

The Osun State local government elections have commenced, proceeding despite advisories from both the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, and the Nigeria Police Force, urging th state government to suspend the polls.

Attorney General Fagbemi recommended halting the elections, referencing a Court of Appeal judgment that suggested no vacancies existed in the local government councils. Contrarily, Governor Ademola Adeleke maintained that the elections should proceed as planned, emphasizing the electorate's readiness to vote and the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission's (OSIEC) comprehensive preparations. 

In support of the elections, the Osun State High Court directed OSIEC to conduct the polls, acknowledging the nullification of the previous election held on October 15, 2022, and recognizing existing vacancies in the local councils. The court also instructed security agencies to ensure adequate protection throughout the electoral process. 

Conversely, the Nigeria Police Force, citing credible intelligence of potential violence and security threats, strongly advised the state government to suspend the elections to prevent possible unrest and ensure public safety. 

Despite these concerns, Governor Adeleke announced restrictions on vehicular movement between 5 a.m. and 5 p.m. on election day to facilitate voter participation.