By Damilola Adeleke

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged the federal government to withhold allocations meant for local government councils in Osun State until elected officials, reinstated by a court ruling, assume office.

The party condemned last Saturday’s local government election conducted by Governor Ademola Adeleke, accusing him of violating his oath of office and disregarding a February 10, 2025, Court of Appeal judgment that ordered the reinstatement of sacked local government officials.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka described the election as “illegal, unconstitutional, and a reckless waste of public funds.” He argued that Adeleke’s decision to conduct fresh elections, despite the court’s ruling, was a “flagrant breach” of his oath and an incitement to unrest in Osun State.

APC ALLEGES CONTEMPT OF COURT

The February 10 judgment overturned a Federal High Court ruling that had nullified the 2022 election of APC-backed local government officials. The Appeal Court deemed the previous decision “incompetent” and ordered the reinstatement of the sacked officials, allowing them to serve until October 2025. However, instead of complying, Adeleke’s government proceeded with fresh elections, a move the APC labeled as an “unconstitutional shortcut” that disregards the rule of law.

CALL FOR SANCTIONS & FEDERAL INTERVENTION

Morka demanded that federal allocations be given only to elected officials recognized by the courts, emphasizing that the constitution guarantees democratically elected local government councils. The party also called on security agencies to maintain order amid rising tensions in the state.

“Why is Governor Adeleke so determined to incite anarchy in Osun State? Instead of violating court orders, he should seek redress at the Supreme Court,” Morka stated. APC further urged Osun local government workers to recognize the reinstated officials and continue their duties under their leadership. As the controversy deepens, the political standoff between the APC and PDP in Osun State threatens to escalate further.