Tensions Rise in Osun as APC, PDP Clash Over Council Control After Court Ruling

A fresh political crisis is threatening to destabilize local governance in Osun State as rival executives of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) are laying parallel claims to control over the state’s local government councils. The controversy follows a string of conflicting court decisions and has sparked concern over possible unrest across the region.

The latest tension stems from a judgment delivered by the Appeal Court on February 10, 2025, which reinstated the APC-led council executives that had earlier been sacked by two Federal High Court rulings. However, a subsequent move by the APC to relist an earlier appeal—previously struck out on January 13 for lack of diligent prosecution—was dismissed, further complicating the situation.

Governor Alia Confirms Death of 59 In Yelewata Attack, Pope And Protesters Demand Justice

Council Power Tug-of-War Ignites Tension in Osun

In the aftermath of the Appeal Court’s dismissal of the relisting effort, the PDP—backed by the Osun State government—asserted that the judgment validated the continued tenure of PDP-elected council executives, who assumed office on February 22, 2025. They claimed that the ruling effectively nullified the status of the reinstated APC chairmen and cleared the path for the PDP to retake the councils.

Despite the PDP’s claim, the APC remains defiant. Speaking to reporters, Abiodun Idowu, Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) for APC, maintained that his party remains in lawful control of the councils. “The keys of the councils are with us,” he stated confidently. “We have an enrollment order validating our legal position. Let the PDP produce their enrollment order if they have any.”

Idowu further claimed that the Inspector General of Police deployed officers in support of the APC’s legal authority, reinforcing their position in the councils. “There’s no fear. Osun residents should go about their normal business,” he added, dismissing the PDP’s stance as lacking legal backing.

PDP Counters With Emphasis on Peace and Governance

On the other side of the political aisle, Sarafadeen Awotunde, ALGON Chairman for the PDP, insisted that the focus of his party is not on council occupancy but on peace and ongoing development projects under Governor Ademola Adeleke. “We are not here to disrupt the peace and progress Osun is enjoying,” Awotunde stated. “We are confident in the legal process. This isn’t APC versus PDP. It’s APC against the people of Osun.”

Awotunde described the reinstated APC council officials as “hooligans,” asserting that the Court of Appeal knows what legal steps to take next to remove them officially. He reiterated the PDP’s commitment to the rule of law, indicating that the party would avoid any form of confrontation or illegality in reclaiming council offices.

Security Tightened as Police Intervene to Prevent Violence

With rising tensions and fears of clashes between party supporters, the Osun State Police Command has stepped in to stabilize the situation. Police spokesperson Abiodun Ojelabi confirmed that personnel have been deployed to various local government offices across the state.

“Our deployment is purely preventive,” Ojelabi said. “We’re maintaining peace and ensuring that no group takes the law into their own hands.” The presence of security operatives around the councils has helped to prevent immediate confrontations, although the situation remains tense.

Governor Adeleke Orders Probe of Radio Stations Over Inciteful Broadcasts

In a separate but related development, Governor Ademola Adeleke has ordered a probe into the conduct of some radio station heads in the state. According to the governor, opposition figures used these platforms to spread inciteful and inflammatory messages regarding the appeal court’s decision, in violation of national broadcasting codes.

Adeleke expressed concern that such broadcasts could stir up violence and disrupt public order. He emphasized the need for media platforms to uphold ethical standards, especially during politically sensitive periods. “Freedom of speech must not be abused to incite unrest,” he said.

Osun at a Crossroads: Peace or Political Unrest?

The unfolding events in Osun State reflect a larger struggle over electoral legitimacy, judicial interpretation, and the rule of law. The dueling claims between APC and PDP council executives not only threaten to paralyze local governance but also risk creating deeper divisions among communities already strained by political rivalry.

While both parties have professed commitment to peace, their conflicting interpretations of the court’s ruling are creating confusion among residents and local officials. As the legal tussle continues, Osun citizens are urging their leaders to put the state’s interests first, avoid provocations, and allow the judiciary to conclusively determine the rightful stewards of local governance.

The coming days will be critical in determining whether the state remains on the path of stability or slides into another round of political disorder.