Despite the political tension surrounding the Osun State local government election, the process began on Saturday with Governor Ademola Adeleke casting his vote. The governor voted early at 8 a.m. at Unit 9, Ward 2, in the Ede North Local Government Area (LGA).
After voting, Governor Adeleke described the election as peaceful, urging the people of Osun State to vote and return home calmly. He emphasized the importance of peace, saying, “The process has been very peaceful. I made a broadcast to my people urging that this election should be without violence. Osun State is a peaceful state, and we should keep it that way.”
He further appealed for a smooth process: “People should come out, vote, and leave peacefully. There should be no disruptions. We must avoid giving anyone the opportunity to claim there is violence here. Osun is known for its peaceful nature.”
Leading up to the election, controversy swirled. On Thursday, the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, called on Governor Adeleke to postpone the election, citing the controversial ruling by the Court of Appeal, Akure division, on February 10, 2025, which allegedly reinstated the previously dismissed local government chairpersons and councilors.
The Nigeria Police Force also expressed concerns on Friday, recommending that the election be suspended due to security threats. According to the police, intelligence suggested a high likelihood of violence and disturbances if the elections proceeded. They noted that various groups, including political factions and other stakeholders, were mobilizing to incite unrest and undermine the democratic process.
Despite these concerns, the Osun State government maintained its position, stating that it would proceed with the election in accordance with the court order that mandated its holding. Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, reaffirmed that the government would uphold the rule of law.
