By Olasunkanmi Akoni

A coalition group, Coalition for Good Governance, has called on Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke and the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) to postpone the February 22, 2025 local government election due to the tense atmosphere in the state and the need to prevent further loss of lives and property.

Speaking at a press conference on Thursday, the group’s Convener, Comrade Nelson Ekunjimi, alongside Comrade Gbenga Soloki and Comrade Rasheed Raji Oyewunmi, urged stakeholders to prioritize peace and security over political interests.

The coalition argued that the current environment of violence in Osun State makes it unsafe to conduct the local government poll.

According to Ekunjimi, “We urge OSSIEC to put the election on hold as a mark of respect for the lives lost during the recent crisis. All efforts should be focused on restoring peace and ensuring the safety of Osun residents.”

He accused political actors of stretching the state’s security apparatus to the limit, warning that the election could escalate tensions and further destabilize the state.

The group criticized Governor Adeleke’s handling of the situation, describing his leadership as lacking in sensitivity and responsibility.

“We are troubled by the governor’s decision to proceed with the election despite the volatile situation. This action risks worsening the unrest and undermining public safety,” Ekunjimi stated.

The coalition further alleged that the planned election is part of a political scheme by the state government to provoke crises and tarnish the image of President Bola Tinubu and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun.

While acknowledging the professional conduct of security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Police and the Department of State Services (DSS), the coalition condemned the Adeleke administration’s accusations against law enforcement.

“We commend the security agencies for their efforts in managing the recent violence. It is disappointing that Governor Adeleke and his associates, including his nephew, David Adeleke (Davido), continue to vilify these patriotic officers,” Ekunjimi added.

The group urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate the allegations of violence and bring perpetrators to justice, regardless of political affiliations.

“All allegations of assassination and murder from both the PDP and APC must be taken seriously. We cannot allow this to spiral into anarchy due to political blackmail,” they warned.

The coalition specifically called on law enforcement to question the Senate Deputy Minority Leader, Akogun Lere Oyewunmi, and Hon. Ibrahim Inaolaji over their alleged involvement in disturbing the peace and the murder of Remi Abass.

“The security agencies must rise to the occasion and ensure that this heinous crime is not swept under the carpet,” the coalition emphasized.