The Nigeria Police Force has advised the Osun State government to suspend the local government elections scheduled for today, February 22, citing security threats and legal complexities.
The advice was contained in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, who disclosed that credible intelligence indicated a high likelihood of violence if the elections proceed.
“Various groups, including political elements and other interested parties, are mobilising to instigate unrest and disrupt public peace. In light of the combination of heightened security threats and the existing legal complexities, the Nigeria Police Force advises the Osun State Government to reconsider and suspend the planned elections immediately,” the statement read.
The police further assessed the security landscape and determined that allowing the election to take place could escalate into widespread unrest, posing a danger to lives and property. However, the Force reassured the public of its commitment to upholding peace and protecting democratic processes within the framework of the law.
“The NPF reiterates its commitment to maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that Nigeria’s democratic processes are upheld in accordance with the law,” Adejobi stated.
The controversy surrounding the election deepened after the Osun State High Court ordered the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) to conduct elections for vacant local government positions. Governor Ademola Adeleke had insisted that the elections would hold as scheduled, despite opposition.
Additionally, the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, urged Governor Adeleke to put the elections on hold, citing a February 10, 2025, ruling by the Court of Appeal in Akure, which nullified a previous judgment by the Federal High Court, Osogbo, from November 25, 2022. The AGF explained that the appellate court’s ruling effectively restored the All Progressives Congress (APC) local council chairmen, who had been removed by the lower court.
The political tension has already resulted in violent clashes between members of the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), leaving no fewer than six people dead between Monday and Friday.
Despite the police warning and legal concerns, Kluemedia reports that it is unlikely the election will be postponed.