Osun Crisis Deepens As APC, PDP Lock Horns Over Local Government Leaders

The controversy arose after Osun’s Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaiye, issued formal letters introducing local government executives from the state’s 30 councils to key federal officials, including Attorney-General of the Federation (AGF) Lateef Fagbemi, Accountant-General of the Federation Shamsudeen Babatunde Ogunjimi, and Central Bank Governor Yemi Cardoso.

APC Condemns Move, Labels Officials ‘Impostors’

In a swift reaction, APC, through its Director of Media, Kola Olabisi, denounced the move, branding those introduced as “impostors” since no legitimate election had taken place.

“There were no vacancies in Osun LGAs to warrant any election,” Olabisi argued, referencing the Court of Appeal’s February 10, 2025, ruling that reinstated the local government executives elected on October 15, 2022.

He also accused Governor Ademola Adeleke of ignoring legal counsel from the AGF, who had previously advised against fresh elections.

“It is ironic that Governor Adeleke, who ignored the AGF’s professional advice against holding an election, is now seeking the same office’s recognition for these so-called executives,” Olabisi said.

Citing security concerns raised by the Inspector-General of Police, he urged federal officials to disregard the introduction of what he called “illegitimate” appointees.

PDP Fires Back, Accuses APC of Misrepresenting Court Rulings

Countering the APC’s position, Osun PDP Chairman, Sunday Bisi, dismissed the opposition’s claims, accusing them of twisting legal rulings to fit their agenda.

“APC refuses to accept the fact that a valid court judgment removed their so-called chairmen, who were elected in a one-party sham election,” Bisi stated.

He defended the state government’s approach, asserting that it sought a peaceful resolution rather than escalating political tension.

“Rather than allow bloodshed—APC’s preferred route—we chose dialogue, even after losing six of our members in the process. That is why we engaged the AGF and other relevant federal authorities,” he added.