Open Letter to Governor Adeleke: Why Osun State Governor, Adeleke Ademola Should Accept the Court Judgement of Reinstating Elected APC Council Chairmen and Councillors
By Honorable Wole Oke, Representative of Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency
Dear Governor Ademola Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke,
Good morning, sir.
I write to you with utmost respect and concern regarding the ongoing political tensions affecting Osun State’s local government administration. It is imperative to address the recent public criticisms directed at President Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Osun State APC leader Asiwaju Isiaka Gboyega Oyetola, Attorney General Lateef Fagbemi SAN, and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. I urge you to refrain from actions or statements that may be perceived as defamatory towards these distinguished individuals.
It is important to recognize that the difficulties currently experienced by the beneficiaries of local government administration in Osun State are largely a consequence of governance decisions made under your administration. These issues continue to cause hardship for many citizens.
One of the reasons I parted ways with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) under your leadership is the apparent disregard for constructive counsel. Unfortunately, some of the individuals within your circle do not have your best interests at heart.
I previously advised you on the Court of Appeal judgment that reinstated the duly elected APC local government chairmen, vice chairmen, and councillors. Regrettably, my counsel was not heeded. It is puzzling and concerning that advice contrary to a clear court ruling would be given, as it only prolongs the crisis. The PDP and the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) chose an inappropriate judicial avenue, which has now resulted in the closure of the window for seeking a stay of execution or appealing to the Supreme Court.
With the Supreme Court option no longer available, it is now incumbent upon you to direct the Local Government civil servants, including members of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), to resume work and collaborate constructively with the reinstated APC elected officials. This cooperation should continue until the current officials’ tenure expires.
Furthermore, OSIEC should promptly issue notices for fresh local government elections, which must be conducted within the stipulated 180-day timeframe, unless the current APC officials request to complete their three-year mandate. Alternatively, arrangements should be made for the payment of their emoluments for the duration of their term.
Governor Adeleke, it is crucial to remember that both APC and PDP members are citizens of Osun State. As such, you owe every resident your duty of care and fair governance, irrespective of party affiliation.
I submit this letter in the spirit of peace and constructive engagement, hoping for a resolution that will restore stability and progress to Osun State’s local government system.
Respectfully,
Hon. Wole Oke
Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency Representative
