Adeleke alleges plan by opposition to disrupt LG election in Osun

• Act within court judgment, Basiru warns

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has raised concerns over alleged plans by the opposition to disrupt the local government election slated for February 22. He has therefore directed security operatives to deal decisively with any promoter of violence within the context of the rule of law.

In a statement by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, on Wednesday, Adeleke vowed that he would not allow the state to be plunged into violence.

The governor, who lauded the peaceful campaigns by various political parties ahead of the elections, assured all stakeholders of non-interference in the local government election.

He advised candidates across all parties to sell their agenda to the voting public instead of resorting to violence or arm-twisting.

“We are highly educated in Osun State. Our literacy level is at an all-time high. This is not a state where residents can be lied to. They read and digest court rulings and political subjects without being hoodwinked. I urge our people to get prepared for February 22. It is an opportunity to vote for your preferred council chairmen and councillors.

“We have credible reports of plots by elements within the opposition to foment crisis in Osun State. I warn those plotting such evil to desist because of its grave consequences. As the Chief Security Officer of this state, I have directed security agencies to deal decisively with any promoter of violence within the context of the rule of law. We will not allow this state to be plunged into a baseless conflict,” Adeleke said.

The National Secretary of the APC, Dr Ajibola Basiru, warned the state government to stop all actions intended to impede the course of justice and act in full adherence to the court’s judgment.

He said, “The only option open to a party dissatisfied with the judgment of the Court of Appeal is to challenge it by appeal to the Supreme Court.

“This is to remind the Osun State Government that Nigeria is governed by the rule of law and not by executive fiat through illegal executive orders. Any attempt to frustrate the enforcement of this judgment will be met with appropriate legal responses.

“The relevant security agencies must ensure that the democratically elected officials have their lawful rights respected and protected against intimidation or harassment by the Osun State Government.

“The validly elected councils, now vindicated by the judgment, should take every lawful step to give effect to the judgment by resuming office forthwith. I call on the Osun State Government to stop all actions intended to impede the course of justice and act in full adherence to the court’s judgment,” Basiru said.