By Ibrahim Kegbegbe
Osogbo, Feb. 21, 2025 – The Osun State High Court in Ilesa has issued an order mandating the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) to proceed with the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025. This ruling counters earlier concerns and legal challenges raised by the opposition and the Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF).
The court’s decision follows a suit filed by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), reaffirming the legitimacy of the electoral process. Governor Ademola Adeleke welcomed the ruling, emphasizing that the state government remains committed to ensuring a smooth and transparent election.
In response to previous calls to halt the election, the Osun State Government cited a Federal High Court judgment from November 30, 2022, which remains binding. The government also urged the AGF to clarify its position on the matter, asserting that no legal impediments exist against the scheduled poll.
The opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) remains firm in its withdrawal from the election, citing a Court of Appeal judgment reinstating its sacked local government chairmen and councillors. However, with the court order now in place, OSSIEC has reaffirmed its readiness to conduct the election as planned.
The Merit Newspaper has been closely monitoring the developments, reporting on the unfolding situation and the legal battles that have shaped the electoral process. As tensions rise, stakeholders and observers continue to watch how events play out, with the judiciary now playing a crucial role in determining the future of local governance in Osun State.
