By Comrade James Onifade
The judgment of the court sacking the APC yes or no council chairmen and councillors in Osun State is a landmark victory for democracy, justice, and the rule of law. This verdict affirms what constitutional experts and concerned citizens have maintained all along: the continued occupation of local government offices by individuals of questionable legitimacy was untenable and contrary to due process.
Direct Notice to Sacked APC Yes/No Chairmen:
The court has spoken and there is no room for elongation of tenure. All sacked APC yes or no chairmen and councillors should vacate office immediately in compliance with the judgment.
You must desist from operating unauthorized bank accounts and ensure all funds withdrawn through illegal channels are accounted for and refunded without delay. The duly elected officials barred from office since *February 22, 2025* must now be allowed to serve the people.
Osun is renowned for peace. We urge everyone to avoid actions that could cause chaos. Anyone who resists lawful handover will be held accountable by law enforcement. Those culpable for financial infractions will face due legal process.
Osun’s development is bigger than any individual. Let us all prioritize peace, rule of law, and service to the people.
The ruling brings much-needed clarity to a political impasse that lingered for months, fueling tension and uncertainty across the state. By settling the dispute through judicial means, the court has reaffirmed its role as the ultimate arbiter in democratic contests and strengthened public confidence in our institutions.
I congratulate the duly elected local government chairmen and councillors whose patience and resilience were tested throughout this ordeal. Despite sustained political pressure, intimidation, and provocations under the APC administration led by former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, they remained committed to lawful channels in pursuit of justice. Their conduct sets a standard for democratic perseverance.
With legal authority now firmly established, the councils are positioned to assume administration of local governments and deliver tangible development to the grassroots. The people of Osun deserve functional local governments focused on service delivery, infrastructure, and welfare — not protracted political conflict.
Special commendation is due to Governor Ademola Adeleke for his wisdom, restraint, and statesmanship throughout this crisis. At a time when emotions ran high and there were attempts to escalate tensions, the governor prioritized peace and constitutional order. His adherence to due process averted undemocratic interventions, including calls for a state of emergency.
The court has spoken. This verdict should close a painful chapter in Osun’s political history. What the people need now is stability, peace, and effective governance at the local level.
This victory belongs not to a political party alone, but to democracy and to the people of Osun State.
The era of political distraction is over. The era of governance has begun.
Signed:
Comrade James Onifade
Advocate for Good Governance and Judicial Reform
