Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has accused the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, of enforcing illegality in the state’s local government administration.
Adeleke made the allegation during a meeting with British diplomats led by the UK’s Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter.
The governor condemned what he described as the IGP’s collusion with the All Progressives Congress (APC) to impose a “non-existent” court order, warning that such actions threaten democracy in Nigeria.
He lamented the role of security forces in allegedly aiding violations of democratic processes rather than upholding the rule of law.
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“You are in my state at a critical juncture in our political life. We face an existential threat to our democracy from those who should be its protectors,” Adeleke told the diplomats.
“Despite my directive for political actors to refrain from escalating tensions, the opposition, with police support, broke into local government secretariats to enforce illegality.”
Reaffirming his commitment to a peaceful and fair election scheduled for Saturday, Adeleke stated that Osun citizens are prepared to exercise their democratic rights.
He urged the international community to take note of the alleged democratic infractions, calling for security agencies to remain neutral and uphold the rule of law.
Beyond the political crisis, Adeleke highlighted his administration’s progress in various sectors.
He cited a 40% reduction in infrastructure deficit, a similar cut in state debt, improved workers’ welfare, and the enrollment of pensioners in the state health insurance scheme.
He also emphasised efforts to enhance the ease of doing business, streamline taxation, and fast-track the issuance of Certificates of Occupancy within 45 days.
READ ALSO: Osun LG crisis: Adeleke asks residents to stay away from secretariats
Responding to Adeleke’s concerns, Deputy High Commissioner Baxter underscored the UK’s commitment to democratic values, urging all political actors to prioritize peace and lawful resolution of disputes.
“Nigeria is a key partner to the UK, and we encourage all stakeholders to uphold democratic values, ensure peaceful governance, and respect legal institutions,” Baxter stated.
“It is vital that law enforcement remains neutral and that political disputes are resolved through lawful channels.”
Baxter was accompanied by Katherine Fernandes, Second Secretary (Political), and Wale Adebajo, Senior Political Adviser.
The meeting comes amid heightened political tensions in Osun as the state prepares for local government elections, with concerns over security agencies’ roles in the unfolding events.
