The Nigeria Police Force has urged the Osun State government to postpone the local government elections set for February 22, citing escalating security concerns and unresolved legal issues.
The advice was contained in a statement signed by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
According to him, the police received credible intelligence indicating a likelihood of violence and significant security threats if the elections proceed.
“Various groups, including political elements and other interested parties, are mobilising to instigate unrest and disrupt public peace.
“In light of the combination of heightened security threats and the existing legal complexities, the Nigeria Police Force advises the Osun State Government to reconsider and suspend the planned elections immediately,” the statement noted.
He claimed that the Force had assessed the current security landscape and determined that proceeding with the elections could escalate into widespread unrest, endangering lives and property.
However, the Police reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and upholding Nigeria’s democratic processes in accordance with the law.
“The NPF reiterates its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and ensuring that Nigeria’s democratic processes are upheld in accordance with the law,” Adejobi stated.
SaharaReporters had reported on Thursday that the Osun State High Court ordered the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) to conduct elections for vacant local government positions.
Governor Ademola Adeleke had also affirmed that the elections would hold today, despite controversy surrounding the polls.
The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, had on Thursday, asked Governor Adeleke to put the local government election on hold.
The minister cited the Court of Appeal, Akure division judgement, on February 10, 2025, which nullified the judgement of the Federal High Court, Osogbo, delivered on November 25, 2022.
The AGF said the verdict of the appellate court implied that the All Progressives Congress (APC) local council chairmen formerly sacked by the lower court have been restored.
Meanwhile clashes between the APC and PDP members over the control of local government councils have left no fewer than six persons dead between Monday and Friday.
SaharaReporters reports that it is unlikely that the election will be postponed.
