**Osogbo, Nigeria** — On Sunday, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State officially swore in newly elected chairpersons and councillors statewide.
This ceremony, which took place across the 30 local government areas and 332 wards, marks a significant leadership transition.
The elections, held on Saturday, saw the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secure a sweeping victory in all contested positions.
Speaking at the swearing-in ceremony, Governor Adeleke expressed satisfaction that the electoral process was successfully concluded despite earlier challenges.
He congratulated the newly elected officials and emphasized the importance of delivering meaningful governance to their constituents effectively.
Moreover, he urged them to fulfill the promises of democracy, ensuring the people’s needs and aspirations are prioritized.
“I congratulate all newly elected council chairmen and councillors. You have the mandate to deliver on good governance in your respective local governments,” Adeleke said.
“I charge you to develop plans of action within the manifesto of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“As our government transforms the state for the better, I urge you to become agents of change and community developers.”
Moreover, the governor addressed ongoing tensions regarding local government secretariats occupied by individuals allegedly supported by police forces.
He directed the newly elected officials to refrain from entering the secretariats for now to avoid potential clashes.
“We are all aware of the journey to where we are. The state is today rounding up a process that started a year or so ago,” Adeleke stated.
“The state electoral body had issued due notice of election a year ago.
I know the commission had complied with all extant rules and procedures, which led to the emergence of new local government chairmen and councillors.”
He acknowledged the legal disputes that had clouded the elections but expressed confidence in the legitimacy of the process.
“We are equally aware of the legal controversies that dogged the holding of the election.
“It is indeed joyful that the facts are now public, and we feel confident in our adherence to the law,” he noted.
Governor Adeleke emphasized a recent ruling by an Osun State High Court confirming the vacancies in local government positions. In addition, he assured residents that his administration would rely on judicial processes to resolve lingering disputes peacefully.
Moreover, the governor expressed gratitude to the people of Osun State for their unwavering support during the elections. He also reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing their welfare and addressing their needs effectively.
“We will not fail you. People’s welfare will continue to be our watchword,” he pledged.
Adeleke also commended the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission for conducting the elections professionally and thanked security agencies for maintaining peace throughout the process. He further expressed appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for resisting efforts by certain groups to destabilize Osun State during this period.
The event attracted several notable dignitaries, including Seyi Makinde, the governor of Oyo State, and Bala Mohammed.
Moreover, Bala Mohammed serves as the governor of Bauchi State and is currently the chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum.
Their presence underscored broad support for Governor Adeleke’s leadership and the newly sworn-in officials.
The governor concluded his remarks by urging all elected officials to work diligently in service to their communities, emphasizing their role as critical agents in delivering good governance and fostering development across Osun State.