Hours before the local government elections in Osun State, the Nigeria Police Force has called on the government to suspend the elections. This recommendation follows joint intelligence assessments that indicate various groups, including political factions, are mobilizing to create unrest and disrupt the electoral process.
Tensions have been high in Osun due to ongoing disputes over local government administration, with the PDP and APC locked in a fierce battle over the legitimacy of officials.
Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi recently urged Governor Ademola Adeleke to postpone the elections, citing a Court of Appeal ruling that nullified previous local government elections conducted under former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola. Despite this, Governor Adeleke has insisted that the elections will proceed as planned.
Force Public Relations Officer ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi expressed concerns over the potential for violence, stating, “The Nigeria Police Force has received credible intelligence indicating a high likelihood of violence and significant security threats should the planned local government elections proceed.”
Adejobi warned that while security agencies are prepared to maintain order, suspending the elections would be in the best interest of public safety and national stability. He emphasized that the current security landscape does not support conducting elections under such volatile conditions.
In light of the heightened security threats and legal complexities surrounding the elections, the police have strongly advised the Osun State Government to reconsider and suspend the planned elections immediately. Adejobi also urged all stakeholders to prioritize the safety and well-being of citizens during this period.
