Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has issued a strong warning to the All Progressives Congress (APC), cautioning against any attempt to undermine democracy in Osun State. His statement comes in the wake of recent unrest and political tension surrounding the local government elections in the state.
Makinde, who spoke on Sunday, February 23, at the swearing-in ceremony of 30 newly elected local government chairmen in Osun, emphasized the need for due process and fairness in local government administration. He urged all political players to respect democratic principles and refrain from using federal influence to disrupt governance at the grassroots level.
A Call for Political Maturity and Stability
Addressing the gathering, Makinde referenced a recent meeting of the South-West Governors’ Forum in Lagos, where both PDP and APC governors discussed regional development. He noted that despite their political differences, the governors were united in their commitment to delivering good governance to the people.
“We were recently in Lagos for the South-West Governors’ Forum meeting, where both PDP and APC governors were present. Our goal is to work together for the development of our region. Governance is about delivering the dividends of democracy to the people,” he stated.
Makinde expressed concern over the rising political tension in Osun, which has reportedly led to the loss of lives. He warned against a repeat of the violent political history of the South-West region, referencing the chaotic “Wild Wild West” era of the 1960s when political crises led to widespread violence and instability.
“We do not want a return to the ‘Wild Wild West’ days. We must allow the democratic process to run its course. Even if a court ruling is in your favour, there is a legal process to follow. Federal might should not be used to truncate democracy,” he cautioned.
PDP Governors Stand with Adeleke
Governor Makinde was joined in Osogbo by the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, in a show of solidarity with Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke. Their presence signaled the PDP’s firm stance on the legitimacy of the local government elections and their determination to defend the results.
Makinde congratulated the newly sworn-in local government chairmen and urged them to focus on fulfilling their campaign promises. He reminded them that their positions were a responsibility to the people and not just a political victory.
“This is your chance to make a difference at the grassroots. With the support of your governor and the state government, I believe you will deliver,” he told the new council leaders.
A Controversial Election Amid Legal Warnings
The Osun local government elections have been mired in controversy, with the APC rejecting the results and calling the process illegitimate. The opposition party argued that the polls were conducted in defiance of legal and security concerns previously raised by federal authorities.
Prior to the elections, Nigeria’s Attorney-General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and the police had warned against holding the polls, citing security risks and legal issues. Despite these warnings, Governor Adeleke proceeded with the elections, asserting that the process was in line with democratic principles and constitutional rights.
With tensions still high, political observers are watching closely to see how the federal government and the judiciary respond to the ongoing dispute. Meanwhile, Makinde’s warning serves as a reminder of the need for political actors to prioritize stability and democratic values over partisan interests.
As the dust settles, the big question remains: Will the APC accept the outcome of the elections and work within the legal framework, or will Osun State witness further political turmoil in the days ahead?
