Osun State Government rejects Police advice on LG elections, cites rule of law, court orders
Osogbo, 21 February 2025 – The Osun State Government firmly rejected security advice from the Nigerian Police Force concerning the local government elections.
The government stressed its dedication to maintaining the rule of law and respecting democratic principles in the upcoming polls.
Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, issued a statement today, reinforcing this stance.
He highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to ensuring a fair and lawful electoral process on Saturday, February 22nd.
Furthermore, the statement criticized the police advice as biased and partisan, asserting that it contradicts democratic norms.
Under Governor Ademola Adeleke’s leadership, the state government accused the police of collaborating with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to promote what they termed “illegality.”
In detail, the government reviewed the Nigerian Police Force’s advice and found it partisan and inconsistent with democratic tenets.
The statement noted that the police’s actions demonstrate a troubling bias favoring the APC, which has been advocating for illegality through a non-existent court order.
Moreover, the government expressed serious concerns about the police’s breach of professional standards.
It accused the force of openly supporting the APC in enforcing a reinstatement order that, according to the government, was never issued by any court.
Consequently, the government pointed out that a law enforcement agency has transformed into a partisan wing of a political party, thereby losing its credibility as a neutral arbiter.
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The police’s actions have contributed to the current tensions, making their advice untenable,” the Commissioner stated.
The rejection of police advice stems from a court ruling earlier today, which confirmed vacancies in Osun’s local councils.
The court dismissed APC officials, thereby creating these vacancies and setting the stage for new elections.
Additionally, the court issued three key orders to guide the process. It affirmed the vacancies, ensured security during elections, and authorized fresh local government elections on February 22nd.
This decision underscores the importance of adhering to legal procedures. It also highlights the court’s commitment to maintaining order and facilitating a democratic transition in Osun’s local governance.
The Osun State Government stressed its commitment to complying with these court orders. It criticized the police for allegedly ignoring the ruling and pursuing a partisan agenda that undermines the rule of law. Alimi stated, “Instead of obeying today’s court ruling, the police have chosen to act against legal principles.”
Despite rejecting the police’s proposal, the state government reassured residents of its readiness to conduct free, fair, and credible elections. It also called on voters to exercise their democratic rights peacefully.
“The Osun State Government remains steadfast in its commitment to democracy and the rule of law. We urge all voters to participate peacefully in tomorrow’s elections,” the statement concluded.
The local government elections are expected to proceed as planned, with state authorities pledging to ensure a secure environment for all participants.
