Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke informed some top British diplomats that the Inspector of Police, Kayode Egbetokun has been executing and imposing illegality on local councils in the state.
The governor made this claim following the alleged forceful take over of the local government secretariats by the chairmen and councillors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress in the state in 2022.
A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed on Wednesday, quoted Adeleke as telling the diplomats that, “It is unfortunate and a disservice to democracy that the Inspector General of Police is colluding with the APC to enforce a non-existing court order. This is a serious threat to democracy in Nigeria.”
Governor Adeleke who reaffirmed his readiness for peace, free and fair elections on Saturday said “Osun, a peaceful state, faces combined assault of security forces who rather than protect rule of law are busy aiding and abetting violations of the democratic process.”
Addressing the British diplomats led by the Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter, Adeleke said, “You are in my state at a critical juncture in our political life. We face existential threat to our democratic life from those who should protect democracy. We have made the best of efforts to guarantee peace on the unfolding local government question. I directed members of the political class to stay away.”
“But the opposition supported by the police went ahead to break into the local government secretariats. Security men openly supported them to enforce illegality,” the governor added.
He further stated, “Nonetheless, our local government election is holding on Saturday. Our people are ready for elections. We will not allow democracy to be destroyed.
“We call on the diplomatic community to take judicious note of the rape of democracy ongoing in Osun state. We particularly call attention to the negative role of security agents in the crisis. All stakeholders must abide by rule of law in a democracy. There is no room for self help.”
He told the diplomats that Osun has made great advancement in the various sectors, adding, “We have reduced infra deficit by 40 percent, cut down state debt by 40 percent, attend to workers’ welfare and enroll pensioners in state health insurance scheme.”
The Governor told the delegation that Osun has liberalised the ease of doing business environment and harmonised taxation alongside a 45 day window for issuance of certificate of Occupancy.
British Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter, in his remarks during the visit, stressed the importance of democratic processes and the rule of law.
He urged all political actors to prioritise peace and dialogue over conflict.
“Nigeria is a key partner to the UK, and we encourage all stakeholders to uphold democratic values, ensure peaceful governance, and respect legal institutions.
“It is vital that law enforcement remains neutral and that political disputes are resolved through lawful channels,” Baxter said.
According to the statement, Baxter was accompanied on the trip by Katherine Fernandes, Second Secretary Political and
Wale Adebajo, Senior Political Adviser