Adeleke Orders Newly Sworn-in Osun LG Chairmen to Stay Away from Secretariats

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has directed newly sworn-in local government chairmen and councillors to stay away from their respective council secretariats to prevent a breakdown of law and order in the state.

The directive was issued during the swearing-in ceremony at the Osun State Government House, where 30 local government chairmen and their deputies took the oath of office. Adeleke urged the officials to adhere to the manifesto of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and contribute to the ongoing transformation of the state.

Speaking at the event, Adeleke emphasized that the swearing-in marked the final stage of a year-long process and called on the new officials to focus on community development and the delivery of democratic dividends. “I call on you to be agents of change, community developers, and providers of democratic dividends. We will not fail you. People’s welfare will continue to be our watchword,” he said.

The governor also commended the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), security agencies, and other state officials for ensuring the smooth conduct of the elections. He expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for maintaining stability in the state, reaffirming his commitment to upholding the rule of law.

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, who was also present at the event, congratulated the newly elected officials and urged them to fulfill their campaign promises. “This is an opportunity for you to deliver to the grassroots. This will be your stepping stone to higher positions, and the reward for hard work is more opportunities,” he said.

Makinde also condemned the violence that erupted in Osun State on Monday, February 17, 2025, warning against a repeat of past conflicts. “We don’t want ‘wild wild West’ again. We want to peacefully provide the dividends of democracy to the people. They should not resort to self-help, even if there is a court judgment. They should not assume federal backing gives them undue influence. I will stop here,” he stated.

Earlier in the event, OSSIEC Chairman Barrister Hashim Abioye presented Certificates of Return to the elected chairmen. He congratulated them on their victory and urged them to be exemplary leaders in both conduct and service to the people.

OSSIEC had previously declared PDP candidates as winners of all 332 councillorship positions and 30 local government chairmanship seats following the elections conducted on Saturday.