OSUN APC WITHDRAWS FROM LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION AMIDST CRISIS
Unpacking the Impact: Exploring What the Court of Appeal Decision to Grant APC Rights Means for 2023 General Election
The Osun chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has withdrawn from the local government election scheduled for February 22, citing a February 10 Court of Appeal judgment that reinstated its chairmen and councillors. This decision comes after a crisis erupted on Monday, with both the APC and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) laying claim to local government secretariats across the state.
The crisis began when the APC and PDP laid claim to local government secretariats across the state, resulting in clashes between supporters of both parties. According to police authorities, six people were killed, and many others were injured in the violence.
The Court of Appeal Judgment
The APC’s withdrawal is based on the Court of Appeal’s judgment in appeal No. CA/AK/270/2022, which nullified the Federal High Court’s judgment in suit No. FHF/OS/CS/94/2022. The APC claims that this judgment reinstated its chairmen and councillors elected in 2022, making the local government election unnecessary.
However, the PDP has disputed the APC’s claim, stating that the Court of Appeal’s judgment did not reinstate the sacked APC chairmen and councillors. The PDP has argued that the APC’s withdrawal is a tactical move to avoid defeat in the election.
APC’s Withdrawal Letter
The APC’s withdrawal letter, signed by State Publicity Secretary Alao Kamorudeen, was addressed to the Secretary of the State Independent Electoral Commission. The letter emphasized that the APC and its candidates will not participate in the election due to the Court of Appeal’s judgment.
Implications of the Withdrawal
The APC’s withdrawal from the local government election has significant implications for the political landscape in Osun State. The PDP is likely to win the election unopposed, which could further exacerbate the political tensions in the state.
The crisis in Osun State has highlighted the deep-seated political divisions in the state. The APC’s withdrawal from the local government election has added a new layer of complexity to the situation. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the PDP and the APC will navigate this challenging political landscape.
