Senator Francis Fadahunsi has called on the people of Osun State to turn out in large numbers for the Local Government Elections scheduled for Saturday, February 22, 2025, emphasizing that the exercise remains a fundamental part of democracy.
In a statement issued on Friday morning by his media aide, Sam Segun-Progress,the senator representing Osun East Senatorial District, assured voters that the elections would proceed as planned and dismissed the recent statement by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, as a mere legal opinion without any binding effect on the state.
“The people of Osun must understand that the Attorney General’s statement is not a court verdict and, therefore, does not carry the force of law,” Senator Fadahunsi stated. “Osun State remains within its constitutional rights to conduct local government elections, and I encourage all eligible voters to come out tomorrow and exercise their democratic right without fear.”
Fadahunsi took a firm stance against the claim that the election should be postponed, arguing that Osun State, as a subnational entity, has full constitutional authority to organize its local government elections.
“No individual or federal office can arbitrarily halt an election that has been properly scheduled in line with the law,” he stated. “The Supreme Court has consistently reaffirmed the autonomy of state governments in handling local government matters, and Osun is no exception.”
He further criticized what he described as misinformation and political maneuvering, cautioning against attempts to mislead the public into believing that the election is illegal.
Senator Fadahunsi also reassure the people of Osun about security arrangements put in place to ensure a smooth electoral process. He confirmed that security agencies are fully prepared to maintain law and order, in partnership with the Osun State Government under Governor Ademola Adeleke.
“I want to assure all Osun residents that security agencies are on high alert to protect lives, property, and the integrity of the voting process. Every necessary measure has been taken to prevent intimidation, violence, or any form of voter suppression,” he said.
Highlighting the importance of the local government elections, Fadahunsi described it as an opportunity for the people to reaffirm their commitment to democracy.
“This election is not just about electing local government leaders,” he stressed. “It is about defending democracy, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring that the will of the people is respected. Your vote is your power, and no one should be discouraged from using it.”
He urged all eligible voters,young and old to come out in their numbers, vote peacefully, and play their part in building a stronger and more democratic Osun State.
Reaffirming his unwavering support for the electoral process, Senator Fadahunsi dismissed any notion that the election could be stopped and encouraged Osun residents to embrace the democratic process.
“I call on the people of Osun to stand firm, exercise their civic rights, and vote massively in this election. Democracy thrives when the people actively participate, and this election is a chance to shape the future of local governance in our dear state,” he concluded.
With the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) finalizing preparations for Saturday’s polls, all eyes will be on voters as they head to the ballot to determine the leadership at the grassroots level.
