Osun State, Nigeria – In a dramatic turn of events, All Progressives Congress (APC) Local Government Chairmen and Councillors have assumed office across all 30 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Osun State. This follows a Court of Appeal judgment in Ibadan that upheld their election and mandated their immediate inauguration.
According to reports from our correspondent in Osun State, normality has gradually returned to the state, with residents moving freely and security personnel deployed across strategic locations to maintain order. However, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains visibly discontented with the situation.
A PDP member, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed that the party is determined to conduct another election on Saturday, pending directives from Governor Ademola Adeleke. This move signals the PDP’s refusal to accept the Court of Appeal’s ruling, further escalating the political tension in the state.
The APC officials resumed their duties this morning, but the development has sparked mixed reactions across the state. Governor Adeleke has called on local government workers to stay away from their offices until peace is fully restored. This directive comes in the wake of recent violence that claimed eight lives, including the chairman of a local government, just three days ago.
The crisis has deepened the political rift between the ruling PDP and the opposition APC, with both parties trading accusations over the escalating unrest. The situation has raised concerns about the stability of governance and the potential for further violence.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Commissioner of Police has urged citizens to remain calm and go about their normal activities, assuring them of heightened security measures to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
The Court of Appeal’s judgment, which paved the way for the APC officials to assume office, has been hailed by the party as a victory for democracy. However, the PDP has criticized the decision, alleging irregularities in the electoral process and vowing to challenge it.
As the political standoff continues, residents of Osun State are calling for dialogue and peace to prevent further loss of lives and property. The coming days will be critical in determining whether the state can navigate this crisis and restore stability.