FG Urges Osun to Halt Local Government Elections

The Federal Government advised Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke to suspend the Local Government elections set for Saturday. Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, issued a statement on Thursday.

Fagbemi stated that the legal position is clear concerning the conflict between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He said, “Nobody benefits from violence. It is…of utmost importance for Governor Adeleke to advice [the] Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) to shelve the idea of proceeding with any Local Government Election now.”

The AGF’s statement followed the Court of Appeal’s decision to reinstate APC chairmen and councillors previously removed. The Osun state government blamed the APC and former governor Gboyega Oyetola for the crisis. Governor Adeleke had previously stated the election would proceed. The APC, however, has withdrawn, citing legitimacy and timing concerns.

Reports indicate violent clashes between APC and PDP supporters in Osun State. The AGF’s advice seeks to prevent further violence.

Fagbemi’s statement also stressed the need for the Governor to respect to the legal 3-year tenure of elected officials.