Federal Government Advises Osun State Governor to Postpone Local Government Elections

The Federal Government has advised Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to postpone the Local Government elections scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025. This directive comes after the Court of Appeal’s ruling on February 10, 2025, which reinstated the local government chairmen elected under the previous administration of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola.

Background of the Controversy

The controversy surrounding the local government elections in Osun State dates back to November 25, 2022, when the Federal High Court in Osogbo nullified the election of local government chairmen and councillors. The All Progressives Congress (APC) appealed the ruling, and the Court of Appeal overturned the lower court’s decision, describing the case as “incompetent”.

Court of Appeal’s Ruling

According to Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), the Court of Appeal’s decision effectively restored the sacked chairmen and councillors to their positions until their tenure expires in October 2025. Therefore, holding a new election would be invalid and a breach of the Constitution.

The AGF has urged Governor Adeleke to advise the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) to shelve the idea of proceeding with the Local Government election, citing the Court of Appeal’s ruling and the need to ensure a smooth transition of power.

It remains to be seen how Governor Adeleke will respond to the Federal Government’s directive. The governor has been under pressure from various stakeholders, including the APC, to postpone the elections.

The Federal Government’s directive has significant implications for the political landscape in Osun State. If the elections are postponed, it could lead to a temporary resolution of the crisis, but it may also create uncertainty and tensions among the various stakeholders.

The controversy surrounding the local government elections in Osun State has taken a new turn with the Federal Government’s directive to postpone the polls. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the various stakeholders will respond and what implications this will have for the state’s political landscape.