The Western Nigeria Security Network, known as Amotekun, has been deployed to provide security for the Osun State local government election scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025.
This move follows the withdrawal of the Nigeria Police, who had advised Governor Ademola Adeleke to suspend the election due to security concerns. The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) also appears unlikely to participate.
A senior police officer, speaking anonymously, confirmed that security agencies were not officially directed to oversee the election, aligning with the position of the Federal Government as expressed by the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN).
Despite this, the Osun Amotekun Corps confirmed its deployment, citing a ruling by an Osun State High Court in Ilesa that mandated all security agencies to maintain law and order during the election.
Political Tensions and Legal Controversy
Osun State has witnessed escalating tensions between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) over control of local government councils. A recent court ruling reinstated sacked APC chairmen, leading to violent clashes that claimed several lives.
Governor Adeleke, reaffirming his commitment to the election, received a delegation of civil society groups and insisted that the polls would proceed under the supervision of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC).
A ruling by Justice A. Aderigbigbe had declared vacancies in all 30 local government areas and directed security agencies to ensure a peaceful electoral process. However, the police cited credible intelligence indicating a high likelihood of violence and recommended suspending the election.
APC and PDP Clash Over Election Legitimacy
The APC has condemned the election, describing it as “illegal” and urging security agencies to uphold the Court of Appeal ruling that reinstated their local government officials. Osun APC Chairman, Sooko Tajudeen Lawal, criticized the state government’s legal approach and accused Governor Adeleke of acting against the rule of law.
Meanwhile, the PDP defended the election, arguing that it was a constitutional right of the people. The party also accused Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi of bias, claiming his stance was politically motivated due to his previous legal representation of former Osun governor Gboyega Oyetola.
Security Measures and Movement Restrictions
Governor Adeleke has ordered a statewide restriction of movement from 5 AM to 5 PM to prevent electoral violence. He reassured residents that the election would be peaceful, urging security agencies to enforce the restriction while allowing voters, accredited media, and civil society observers to move freely.
As tensions remain high, the outcome of the Osun local government election is expected to have significant political and legal implications for the state.
