Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun has reaffirmed that the state’s local government election will proceed as scheduled, despite legal concerns raised by Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi.

Fagbemi had earlier stated that the court had reinstated local government chairmen elected under former Governor Gboyega Oyetola, who were removed through an executive order by Adeleke. He warned that holding fresh elections before October, when the tenure of the APC-elected chairmen and councillors expires, would be illegal.

However, in a statement by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke dismissed the concerns, insisting that the people of Osun were ready for the polls.

While receiving a delegation of civil society groups monitoring the elections, Adeleke said, “I welcome you all to Osun state. Our people are prepared for elections tomorrow. They yearn to have their choices as chairmen and councillors. OSSIEC has also done a marvellous preparatory job, according to reports at my disposal. Several political parties are participating, and I believe there will be a level-playing ground for all to test their popularity with the masses.”

Addressing the legal dispute, Adeleke emphasized the importance of democratic principles, stating, “Democracy is hinged on the rule of law, and nobody can assume the authority of the courts. My advice to all parties, including local and national stakeholders, is to abide by democratic norms. As for me and my people, we stand by the rule of law, not illegal self-help.”

He assured residents that the elections would lead to accelerated development at the grassroots level and urged them to remain peaceful. “Osun is a truly peaceful state,” he added.