TOM Decries Political Crisis, Security Threats In Osun

-Faults OSSIEC For Proceeding With 2025 LG Election Despite Unresolved Legal Tussle

The Osun Masterminds, a civil society organization, has condemned the ongoing political turmoil in Osun State, blaming both the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) for escalating tensions following the February 10, 2025, Appeal Court judgment.

In a press conference held in Osogbo on Wednesday, the Executive Director of the group, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, criticized the political gladiators for resorting to self-help rather than seeking judicial clarifications.

He expressed deep concern over the killings of Osun indigenes, including Hon. Remi Abbass, attributing the violence to the mismanagement of local government issues.

The group also faulted the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) for proceeding with the 2025 Local Government elections despite unresolved legal questions.

It accused the OSSIEC Chairman, Barr. Hashim Abioye, of partisanship, arguing that the election has further worsened the state’s fragile security.

“We were shocked that OSSIEC conducted elections despite clear legal uncertainties. If the courts eventually confirm that the 2022 Chairmen and Councillors were reinstated, what happens to those elected in 2025? This confusion could have been avoided with patience and respect for due process,” the statement read.

The organization also condemned the manner in which the elections were conducted, alleging widespread irregularities.

“Thousands of polling units did not receive election materials, and in areas where voting took place, the process was concluded before 10:00 am. This is a desecration of democracy,” Oyedokun-Alli added.

The Osun Masterminds further criticized Governor Ademola Adeleke, accusing him of worsening the crisis rather than working towards a peaceful resolution.

The group also raised concerns over an alleged assassination attempt on Comrade Wole Aluta, a civil society activist. It revealed that between February 17 and 18, his home was ransacked by unidentified men, although nothing was stolen.

“We suspect this is an act of state terror. If anything happens to Comrade Wole Aluta or his family, we will hold the government accountable. Any attempt to silence voices of dissent is unacceptable,” the group declared, adding that security agencies have been informed of the incident.

Addressing national economic issues, the group acknowledged the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in reviving the economy but insisted that these policies have worsened poverty levels.

“Nigerians have moved from cyclic poverty to multidimensional poverty within this period. The removal of fuel subsidies has led to inflation, skyrocketing the cost of daily necessities, telecommunications, and electricity,” Oyedokun-Alli said.

In addition, the group condemned the Ministry of ICT for approving an increase in telecom service charges, arguing that it would impose further hardship on Nigerians.

The Osun Masterminds, however, commended the Federal Government for establishing the Federal University of Agriculture and Development Studies in Osun State.

The group urged the host community to support the institution rather than personalize it for local gains.

Moreso, the civil society organization urged all political actors to immediately return to court for legal clarification of the subsisting judgments and to commit to peace ahead of the 2026 Osun gubernatorial election.

“The Osun State Government must collaborate with the Federal Government to resolve the crisis. Local government staff must also remain non-partisan to avoid being used as political tools,” the statement read.

The group concluded by warning that Osun State is heading toward a deeper crisis and called on all stakeholders to act responsibly.

“Every passing day, Osun moves closer to anarchy. It is time for all concerned to uphold the rule of law and restore order,” Oyedokun-Alli said.