By our correspondent
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has accused the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, of facilitating illegal actions in the state’s local governments, calling it a direct threat to democracy.
Adeleke made this assertion during a meeting with top British diplomats led by Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter in Osogbo.
Describing the situation as a “disservice to democracy,” the governor alleged that the police, in collaboration with the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), had been enforcing a non-existent court order to justify the illegal occupation of local government Secretariat.
“It is unfortunate that the Inspector General of Police is colluding with the APC to impose lawlessness in Osun. This is a serious attack on democracy in Nigeria,” Adeleke said.
He reiterated his commitment to peaceful governance and emphasized that Saturday’s local government elections would proceed as planned despite what he called a “coordinated assault on democracy” by security forces.
“You are in Osun at a critical moment. Rather than upholding the rule of law, security forces are aiding and abetting its violation. We have taken all necessary steps to ensure peace, yet the opposition backed by the police broke into local government offices, enforcing illegality with official support,” the governor stated.
Adeleke called on the international community to take note of what he termed the “rape of democracy” unfolding in Osun. He urged all stakeholders, including security agencies, to respect the rule of law and democratic principles.
“Despite these challenges, our people are ready for Saturday’s election. Democracy will not be destroyed under my watch,” he vowed.
In his remarks, British Deputy High Commissioner, Jonny Baxter underscored the importance of democracy, rule of law, and peaceful governance.
“Nigeria is a key partner to the UK, and we encourage all stakeholders to uphold democratic values, respect legal institutions, and ensure peace. It is vital that law enforcement remains neutral and that political disputes are resolved lawfully,” Baxter said.