The All Progressives Congress (APC) and Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde are embroiled in a dispute regarding the recent local government elections held in Osun State. Both parties are exchanging accusations concerning the polls' legitimacy and conduct.


Yesterday, the APC urged the Federal Government to withhold allocations to local government areas in Osun, citing what they termed an illegal appointment of council leaders by Governor Ademola Adeleke. This statement follows the inauguration of new council chairmen by Adeleke, with the APC accusing him of flouting a valid judgment from the Court of Appeal regarding the local government elections conducted on February 22, 2025.


APC spokesperson, Felix Morka, expressed that, in light of the law, they expect the Federal Government to allocate funds only to democratically elected and judicially recognized local government officials in Osun. He emphasized that the Court of Appeal had reinstated previously sacked local government officials until their term ends in October 2025, negating the actions taken by Adeleke.


Morka criticized the recent elections, labeling them a “sham” and a “reckless waste of public funds.” He called on Adeleke to appeal to the Supreme Court concerning the matter and urged an end to what they described as anti-democratic actions.


In response, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State cautioned the APC against turning Osun into a “wild west,” emphasizing the need to respect the rule of law. Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony for the new local government chairmen, Makinde warned against taking the law into one's own hands and stressed that disputes should be resolved through judicial processes.


Makinde stated, “We do not want a repeat of the past; they should stay clear of this region. Our goal is to provide benefits of democracy to our citizens peacefully.” 


Governor Adeleke affirmed the legitimacy of the elections, stating the electoral body had adhered to legal protocols leading to the appointment of new officials. He expressed satisfaction with the process and reiterated a commitment to good governance and community development among the newly elected officials.