By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Osun
OSUN: The Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has sworn in newly elected local government chairmen despite warnings from the federal government and security agencies.
The inauguration, which took place on Sunday, has ignited legal and political debates as the new chairmen also administered the oath of office to their councillors across the state.
Adeleke defended the move, insisting that the election followed due process and was sanctioned by the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC).
“This election was not rushed. It started over a year ago with proper notice from the state electoral body. We are on the side of the law within the context of the constitution,” he stated. He urged the newly elected officials to focus on governance and assured them of his administration’s full support.
However, opposition figures and legal experts have raised concerns over the legitimacy of the process. Public policy analyst Mallam Sulayman Nafiu described the election as a “mockery of democracy,” questioning its constitutional backing. Reports also emerged of police officers preventing the removal of previous local government officials, adding to the controversy.
In response, Adeleke instructed the newly elected chairmen and councillors to refrain from forcefully taking over secretariats, stating that legal channels would determine the transition. “We are law-abiding. Let the courts handle this matter while we focus on serving the people,” he said.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has thrown its weight behind Adeleke, hailing the election as a testament to democracy. “This is a referendum on Governor Adeleke’s leadership. The people have spoken, and power remains with them,” the forum declared.
Meanwhile, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who attended the swearing-in ceremony alongside Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, warned against any attempt to destabilize Osun. He urged political opponents to seek redress through legal means rather than inciting unrest. “Resorting to self-help is illegal. Let the judiciary do its job,” Makinde cautioned.
With legal battles looming, the fate of the newly inaugurated local government officials remains uncertain. While Adeleke’s administration maintains that due process was followed, the courts may ultimately determine whether the elections stand or if Osun will witness another round of political turmoil.