Osun Assembly condemns ‘forceful takeover’ of LG secretariats by APC

…urges Tinubu to intervene 

The Osun State House of Assembly has condemned what it tagged as a forceful invasion of local government secretariats by sacked chairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and their supporters.

The House also alleged the Inspector General of Police (IGP) of conniving with the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, to perpetrate illegality in the state.

In a press conference, the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the current political crisis in the state.

Tribune Online had earlier reported that some chairmen and councillors elected under the platform of the APC in 2022 resumed with their supporters to the councils on Wednesday morning despite an order by the state governor, Ademola Adeleke, for politicians to steer clear of the secretariats.

Egbedun, in the statement, said security agents were present when the APC members forced their way into the councils, calling on the IGP to work in the internet of justice rather than bowing to undue political influence.

The statement reads in parts, “Today, members of the opposition party in the state, the All Progressives Congress (APC), forcefully broke into local government secretariats across the state. This unlawful invasion is not only a direct attack on our democratic institutions but also a clear violation of the rule of law and a threat to public peace and order. 

“Even more disturbing is the fact that security agencies, who are meant to uphold the law, were present while these illegal acts were being carried out. This is unjust, unlawful, and unacceptable. Law enforcement agencies must never be seen aiding and abetting criminal activities.

“The Osun State House of Assembly strongly condemns these acts of lawlessness and impunity. We want to make it abundantly clear that this state will not succumb to political banditry and unconstitutional actions. Every individual found guilty of orchestrating or participating in this lawless takeover will be brought to book and held accountable under the full weight of the law.

“The Nigeria Police Force is entrusted with the responsibility of protecting lives, ensuring peace, and upholding justice. However, recent events in Osun State suggest that elements within the force may have compromised their neutrality.

“The Osun State House of Assembly is not unaware of the close relationship between Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, the former Governor of Osun State and the current Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, and the Inspector General of Police. However, while personal relationships may exist, the security of Osun State must never be sacrificed on the altar of friendship at the expense of the rule of law.

“No individual, no matter how highly placed, should manipulate security agencies to serve political interests at the expense of peace and stability. The police must not allow themselves to become a tool for political subjugation or a shield for those violating the law.

“We, therefore, urge the Inspector General of Police to act in the interest of justice and security rather than bowing to undue political influence. Osun State cannot and will not be held hostage by personal alliances at the top. The law must stand, and justice must prevail.

“Your Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, you are not just the leader of this nation; you are one of us, a son of the South West. We call on you to ensure that democracy is not trampled upon in your own political stronghold.

“Mr. President, this is a test of leadership. We urge you to intervene immediately to prevent Osun State from descending into chaos.”

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