At a press conference in Osogbo on Sunday, the OSUN State Governor raised serious concerns over the conduct of state security agencies during the ongoing local government polls. The governor alleged that Mr. Gboyega Oyetola—identified as President Tinubu’s nephew—is improperly directing the state’s security chiefs, including the Commissioner of Police, the Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Commandant of the Civil Defence Corps.
The governor warned that such actions must stop immediately, stressing that Nigerians are committed to resolving political disputes through lawful, democratic means rather than self-help or violence. “We are law-abiding people and fierce protectors of our rights both day and night,” he declared. He emphasized that any attempt to impose illegality or anarchy, such as an unauthorized takeover of local government, will not be tolerated. “We will not allow any local government change except through a judicial pronouncement or a democratic process,” he stated.
In his address, the governor denounced the use of a non-existent court order to secure political power. He called on President Tinubu—a leader renowned for his democratic values—to uphold the rule of law by instructing the Inspector General of Police, the Director General of DSS, and the Commandant General of the Civil Defence Corps to disregard any illegal directives from Mr. Oyetola. He also urged the President to summon the Osun State security chiefs to account for their actions.
Furthermore, the governor appealed for a personal intervention by President Tinubu, instructing the National Security Adviser and the Attorney General of the Federation to confirm that the Court of Appeal judgment did not reinstate the sacked local government chairmen and councilors. He reminded the public that a standing court order—originating from the 2022 local government polls—remains in effect, validating the removal of these officials.
“The Nigerian public should hold Mr. Gboyega Oyetola and the Osun State security chiefs responsible for any breakdown of law and order in the state starting Monday and beyond,” the governor warned. “As much as we will do our best to maintain peace, we call on all men and women of goodwill to intervene before it is too late.”
The governor’s remarks underscore mounting concerns over potential political incitement and the undermining of democratic processes amid the local government polls, as tensions continue to escalate in the state.
