Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has sworn in the newly elected local government chairmen and councillors, marking the official conclusion of the state’s local government elections.
The inauguration ceremony, which took place in Osogbo on Sunday, was attended by party supporters and government officials. Adeleke emphasized the need for good governance and community development, warning against any forceful takeover of council secretariats.
Election Conducted in Line with Due Process
Speaking at the event, Adeleke described the swearing-in as a major democratic milestone, stating that the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) had followed all legal procedures in organizing the elections.
“The state electoral body had issued due notice of election a year ago and complied with all extant rules and procedures, leading to the emergence of new local government chairmen and councillors,” he said.
He also observed a moment of silence in memory of those who lost their lives during the reported “illegal APC takeover” of local government secretariats.
A Call for Accountability and Service
Addressing the newly sworn-in officials, Adeleke charged them to be agents of change and ensure the delivery of democratic dividends to the people.
“You have the mandate to deliver good governance in your respective local governments. Develop plans of action within the manifesto of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). Our government is transforming the state, and I call on you to be part of this positive change,” he stated.
Adeleke Appreciates Tinubu’s Intervention
In a notable remark, Adeleke expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for resisting attempts to destabilize Osun State.
“I am most grateful to Mr. President for rejecting efforts by some forces to plunge Osun into chaos,” he noted.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the rule of law, adding that his administration would continue to prioritize the welfare of the people.
Warning Against Forced Occupation of Secretariats
Adeleke also advised the newly elected officials to stay away from council secretariats currently occupied by those backed by security forces, pending the resolution of legal disputes.
“I urge you and your councillors to stay away from the council secretariats to avoid clashes with those who have been illegally occupying them with police support,” he warned.
The governor referenced an Osun State High Court ruling that affirmed vacancies in the affected positions before the election, assuring that his administration would use legal means to reclaim the secretariats.
With this, Adeleke formally declared the newly elected officials inaugurated, congratulating them and urging them to serve with integrity.
