APC Criticizes Governor Adeleke’s Engagement with Monarchs Amidst Osun Local Government Crisis

 The All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed strong disapproval following Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s recent consultations with traditional rulers concerning the ongoing local government crisis in the state. The APC contends that these meetings may be an attempt to legitimize actions it deems unconstitutional.

The local government crisis in Osun State traces its roots to the October 2022 local government elections conducted during the tenure of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), then in opposition, boycotted these elections, labeling them illegal due to a subsisting court order. Upon assuming office in November 2022, Governor Adeleke dissolved the local government councils, citing the alleged illegality of the elections that brought them into power. This action has since been a point of contention between the APC and the PDP.

In a bid to seek traditional intervention and counsel, Governor Adeleke convened a meeting with Osun State’s traditional rulers. During this assembly, he urged the monarchs to enlighten their subjects about the state’s local government issues and to promote peace and stability. Governor Adeleke emphasized his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that governance at the grassroots level aligns with constitutional provisions.

The APC has criticized Governor Adeleke’s engagement with the traditional rulers, alleging that it is a strategy to justify actions that bypass legal procedures. The party maintains that the dissolution of the local government councils was unlawful and that any attempts to address the crisis should adhere strictly to constitutional guidelines. The APC has called on the governor to respect existing legal frameworks and to refrain from involving traditional institutions in partisan disputes.

The ongoing dispute has significant implications for local governance in Osun State. The absence of duly recognized local government officials hampers the delivery of essential services and development projects at the grassroots level. The involvement of traditional rulers highlights the cultural importance of these institutions in conflict resolution; however, it also raises concerns about the politicization of traditional authority.

The Osun local government crisis underscores the complexities inherent in balancing political actions with constitutional mandates. While Governor Adeleke’s outreach to traditional rulers aims to foster dialogue and peace, the APC’s objections reflect the deep-seated political divisions in the state. Resolving this crisis necessitates adherence to legal processes, respect for democratic institutions, and a commitment to the welfare of the citizens at the grassroots level.