Atiku Abubakar
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has thrown his weight behind Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, for proceeding with the local government election despite warnings from the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) and the police.

The election, which commenced on Saturday morning, had been marred by controversy, with opposition parties raising concerns about security. In a statement issued on Friday night, the police called for the suspension of the exercise, citing the likelihood of unrest.

Similarly, the AGF, Lateef Fagbemi, cautioned Governor Adeleke against going ahead with the election, referencing a recent court judgment that reinstated chairmen elected in 2022 under the All Progressives Congress (APC).

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Undeterred by the concerns and legal advice, Governor Adeleke cast his ballot at about 8 a.m. at Unit 9, Ward 2, in Ede North Local Government Area.

In a post via X on Saturday, Atiku commended Governor Adeleke for his decision, saying:

“As residents in Osun State go out to the polls today to elect council chairpersons, I once again urge for a peaceful and hitch-free exercise.

“The local council election is the heartbeat of a democratic system, given that its outcome impacts closely on the lives of the citizens.

“I commend Governor Ademola Adeleke for going ahead with the exercise and urge security agencies and polling officials to perform their duties with the highest sense of responsibility to the public.”