The Osun State Government has firmly rejected the Nigeria Police Force’s recommendation to suspend the local government elections slated for today, February 22, 2025.
In a statement issued by Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the state administration emphasized that its decision is rooted in a commitment to uphold the rule of law and its aversion to perceived police partisanship.
While recognizing the security concerns raised, the government determined that the police’s request was biased and undermined democratic principles. The statement read, “The implication of the police’s advice threatens the integrity of our democratic process, veiled under a pretense of acting in the public interest. We cannot accept this unwarranted intervention, which appears to promote the agenda of the All Progressives Congress (APC).”
The government accused the police of violating best practices by allegedly siding with the APC, suggesting that the police actively facilitated the reinstatement of certain council leaders under dubious circumstances. They stated, “A law enforcement agency’s role should not devolve into that of a political ally, especially when such involvement compromises its neutrality.”
Citing a recent court ruling affirming the validity of council vacancies and authorizing the elections, the government urged the police to adhere to judicial directives rather than pursuing political interests. The statement further conveyed, “We will not waver from our commitment to the rule of law; thus, we are determined to assist the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission in ensuring the conduct of free and fair elections today.”
The Nigeria Police had previously issued a warning that based on “credible intelligence,” there was a heightened risk of violence if the elections proceeded. Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi stated that various groups were allegedly preparing to instigate violence and disrupt the electoral process, urging the state government to consider the potential legal implications of holding the elections.
Further complicating the situation, an Osun State High Court in Ilesa had authorized the elections, contradicting the police’s concerns.
In a related development, the Osun Democratic Coalition, a group promoting democratic integrity, accused the Nigeria Police of harboring plans that could lead to chaos, alleging that they were mobilizing personnel to incite violence against political opponents. The coalition warned that they would hold the police accountable for any unrest during today’s vote. They expressed strong support for the state’s governor and called for peace, asserting, “Osun is fundamentally a peaceful state, and we reject any attempts to undermine our democracy.”
