Adeleke Slams Emergency Rule Calls, Accuses Oyetola, Oyebamiji of Desperation

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has criticised former governor Gboyega Oyetola and All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate Bola Oyebamiji over renewed calls for a declaration of a state of emergency in the state, describing the move as “desperate” and politically motivated.

In a statement issued at the weekend, Adeleke said the calls were part of what he termed a failed attempt by opposition figures to destabilise his administration following their inability to regain power through democratic means. He insisted that there was no constitutional or security basis for emergency rule in Osun State. The governor linked the development to the lingering crisis over local government administration in the state, accusing the APC of fuelling tensions by backing local government officials whose tenure, according to him, has expired. Adeleke maintained that his government has acted within the law to restore order and legality in the local government system. He further alleged that opposition elements were deliberately exaggerating the situation in the councils in order to invite federal intervention. According to him, despite political provocations, Osun State has remained peaceful, with no breakdown of law and order that would warrant emergency measures. There is no justification whatsoever for a state of emergency in Osun,” Adeleke said, adding that his administration has continued to prioritise dialogue, rule of law and the protection of democratic institutions. The local government dispute in Osun has generated intense political debate, with both the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the APC trading blame over council leadership, access to funds and the role of security agencies. While the Adeleke administration insists the crisis is being orchestrated by opposition forces, the APC has denied wrongdoing and accused the state government of mishandling the situation.