Osun Governor Adeleke Opposes Calls for Emergency Measures Amid NewsLG Dispute

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has rejected recent appeals for a state of emergency in the state, labeling them as politically motivated attempts to create instability rather than address any genuine security concerns.

In a statement issued on Saturday in Osogbo by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor said the calls—allegedly from unnamed civil society groups—were part of a broader effort by opposition figures to undermine democratic governance in Osun. He emphasized that the demand was not based on the current realities but was instead tied to ongoing political disputes, particularly regarding the administration and control of local government councils.

Governor Adeleke accused leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) of intentionally stoking tension at the grassroots level, recalling past attempts to paralyze local government operations through the forceful occupation of council offices and disruption of funds intended for local development. According to him, these actions were designed to provoke unrest and then blame the current administration, paving the way for external intervention.

Despite these challenges, the governor stressed that peace had largely been maintained across the state due to adherence to the law, restraint, and active coordination with security agencies. “Calls for a state of emergency are not grounded in law or fact. Osun remains secure, and the government is fully in control of the situation,” the statement read.

Adeleke also attributed the local government crises to former officials refusing to vacate their offices after their tenure ended, describing any unilateral attempts to extend terms as illegal. On finances, the administration accused opposition figures of obstructing access to local council funds, prompting the state government to step in to ensure that workers received their salaries.

The governor’s office noted that Adeleke had received commendations for handling the situation lawfully and without force, and warned against any further attempts to incite unrest. Security agencies have been placed on high alert to prevent any breakdown of law and order.

Governor Adeleke also appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police to monitor developments, stressing that political ambitions must be pursued through elections, not unconstitutional measures.

The appeal for a state of emergency came from two Osun civil society organizations—Initiative for Local Government Development and Centre for Justice and Community Advocacy—who accused the state government of defying court orders on local government administration. Representatives of the groups cited ongoing impasses, loss of lives, and the potential for further crises as reasons for their call.