Speaker Denounces Unlawful Invasion

Speaking at a world press conference on Wednesday at the Osun State House of Assembly Complex, Speaker Adewale Egbedun revealed that APC members had violently broken into local government secretariats across the state.

“This unlawful invasion is not only a direct attack on our democratic institutions but also a clear violation of the rule of law and a threat to public peace and order,” Egbedun stated.

Security Agencies Accused of Complicity

Expressing concern over the role of security operatives, Egbedun accused law enforcement agencies of failing to prevent the illegal occupation of government buildings.

“It is disturbing that security agencies, who are meant to uphold the law, stood by while these illegal acts were being carried out. Law enforcement must never be seen aiding and abetting criminal activities,” he added.

Court Judgments Declared APC’s Actions Illegal

The Speaker reaffirmed that the Federal High Court in Osogbo had earlier ruled the 2022 local government election unconstitutional, a verdict upheld by the Court of Appeal on January 13, 2025.

“Despite this clear and subsisting judgment, members of the APC have resorted to self-help and brute force in an attempt to illegally occupy government offices,” Egbedun emphasized.

He noted that the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State had fully complied with the court’s directive, prioritizing peace and stability over conflict.

Call for Immediate Security Action

The Osun Assembly has urged security agencies to take decisive action against those responsible for the alleged illegal occupation and ensure they are held accountable.

“We demand that the Nigeria Police Force uphold its constitutional duty to maintain law and order without bias or compromise,” Egbedun declared.

He further raised concerns over an alleged relationship between former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, warning against political interference in security operations.

“No individual, no matter how highly placed, should manipulate security agencies to serve political interests at the expense of peace and stability,” he stated.

The Assembly called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure the immediate eviction and prosecution of illegal occupants of government offices.

Osun Local Government Elections to Hold as Scheduled

Despite the crisis, Egbedun assured the public that the local government elections set for Saturday, February 22, 2025, would proceed as planned.

“We urge all eligible voters to come out en masse and freely exercise their democratic rights,” he encouraged.

Violence Erupts at Council Secretariats, Six Feared Dead

In the wake of violent clashes at council secretariats on Monday, six people have reportedly lost their lives. The unrest began when sacked APC council officials and their supporters attempted to seize control of local government offices. They were met with resistance from PDP supporters, leading to violent altercations.

Among the casualties was Remi Abass in Ikire town, Irewole Local Government Area.

Reacting to the crisis, Governor Ademola Adeleke has ordered all individuals, regardless of political affiliation, to stay away from the council secretariats to prevent further bloodshed.

With tensions running high, the state government has called for calm while emphasizing that the rule of law must prevail.