Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has rejected recent demands for the declaration of a state of emergency in the state. He described the calls as part of what he called a failed attempt by the All Progressives Congress (APC) to regain control of Osun through unconstitutional means.
The governor spoke in response to appeals made by some civil society organisations after recent political tensions in the state. He dismissed the groups as “faceless” and alleged that their position was influenced by political interests.
In a statement released on Saturday in Osogbo, Adeleke linked the campaign for emergency rule to former governor Gboyega Oyetola and the APC governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji. He accused the opposition party of fueling instability across the state.
According to the governor, the APC created problems within the local government system. He alleged that the party crippled council administration, mishandled public funds, and used security operatives unlawfully.
He said the actions of the former governor and his allies had damaged their reputation among residents, describing them as “the most hated political actors in Osun” over their conduct in local government affairs.
“The APC seized local government funds, mismanaged the same, and forcefully occupied the councils, all in a bid to provoke violence and conflict. This is a deliberate strategy to create chaos and blame it on the Adeleke-led administration,” the governor said.
Adeleke stated that his government had sustained peace despite what he termed repeated provocations and illegal actions by individuals aligned with the APC.
He argued that the demand for emergency rule came after the alleged political agenda collapsed.
“Osun APC has failed in its evil bid to destabilise the state, hence their resort to an open call for emergency declaration, for which there is no basis or justification,” he stated.
The governor also faulted attempts to hold his administration responsible for the crisis. He insisted that the tension originated from what he described as the unlawful occupation of council secretariats by APC-backed chairmen whose terms had expired.
He further alleged that council funds were diverted in breach of financial regulations. He added that his administration intervened to settle the salaries of local government workers who were left unpaid.
Adeleke maintained that his approach to the dispute had attracted praise from several stakeholders. He added that the state had progressed beyond the era of politically motivated violence.
“No individual or group will be allowed to further disturb the peace of Osun State. Anybody found creating public mayhem will face the full wrath of the law,” he warned.
The governor revealed that he had instructed the state Commissioner of Police to remain vigilant and prevent any breakdown of law and order. He also urged the Inspector-General of Police to closely monitor developments.
He appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene by cautioning former governor Oyetola. He warned that the minister’s alleged actions could affect the image of the Presidency.
“Those seeking power should face the electorate. Political power is secured through the people; no backdoor access will work,” Adeleke added.
