OSUN: Governor Adeleke votes in LG poll, calls exercise peaceful

Despite political tensions surrounding the poll, voting commenced as scheduled, with Adeleke casting his ballot at Unit 9, Ward 2 in Ede North Local Government Area at 8 a.m. today.

Speaking after voting, the governor encouraged residents to participate in the election peacefully and return home peacefully.

“The process has been very peaceful. I addressed the people of Osun State, urging them to ensure a violence-free election because Osun is a peaceful state,” Adeleke said.

“People should come out, vote, and go back home peacefully. We must not give room for anyone to claim there is violence here or there. That is not who we are as a state.”

The election has been marred by controversy, with the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, calling on Adeleke to halt the process.

The AGF’s position was based on a ruling by the Court of Appeal in Akure on February 10, 2025, which allegedly reinstated local government chairmen and councillors who had been sacked.

Adding to the tension, the Nigeria Police Force yesterday advised the state government to postpone the election, citing intelligence reports warning of potential violence.

Police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi had stated that security agencies had gathered intelligence revealing that various groups, including political actors, were mobilizing to disrupt the election and undermine public peace.

However, the Osun State government rejected the calls for suspension, insisting that it must comply with a court order directing that the election be held.

Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment Kolapo Alimi reiterated the government’s stance, stating that Osun would not violate the rule of law.

Despite the concerns, the election has proceeded, with officials urging voters to maintain order and exercise their rights peacefully.