In a dramatic turn of events, the Nigeria Police Force has urged the Osun State Government to suspend the local government elections scheduled for today, February 22, citing grave security threats and unresolved legal issues.
The advisory was issued in a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who warned that credible intelligence pointed to a high likelihood of violence should the elections proceed.
According to Adejobi, intelligence reports revealed that various groups, including political factions and other vested interests, were actively mobilizing to incite unrest and disrupt public peace.
“In light of the combination of heightened security threats and the existing legal complexities, the Nigeria Police Force advises the Osun State Government to reconsider and suspend the planned elections immediately,” the statement read.
The Police further emphasized that proceeding with the elections under such volatile conditions could escalate into widespread chaos, putting lives and property at risk.
Despite this warning, the Force reaffirmed its commitment to upholding democratic processes while ensuring the safety and security of citizens.
“The NPF reiterates its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that Nigeria’s democratic processes are upheld in accordance with the law,” Adejobi stated.
The unfolding electoral crisis is further complicated by legal disputes. On Thursday, the Osun State High Court ordered the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) to proceed with the elections, despite lingering controversies.
Governor Ademola Adeleke has also maintained that the polls will hold as scheduled. However, the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, on Thursday advised Adeleke to halt the elections.
The AGF’s position is anchored on a recent Court of Appeal ruling in Akure, delivered on February 10, 2025, which overturned an earlier Federal High Court judgment from November 25, 2022. The appellate court’s ruling effectively reinstated the sacked All Progressives Congress (APC) local council chairmen, throwing the legitimacy of the planned elections into further uncertainty.
As tensions spiral, violent clashes between supporters of the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition APC have already resulted in at least six deaths between Monday and Friday. The battle for control of local government councils has intensified, raising fears of further bloodshed if the elections proceed.
Despite the police warning and escalating violence, sources suggest that the election may still go ahead, setting the stage for a potentially volatile showdown.
With security agencies on high alert and legal battles raging, all eyes are on Osun State as the political landscape teeters on the edge of chaos.
PIONEER NEWS 