The attention of Senator Ajibola Basiru, Ph.D., has been drawn to a statement credited to Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, the Secretary to the Osun State Government (SSG), in which he sought to dissociate himself from the recent disturbances orchestrated and implemented by the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State.
It is widely reported across various online media platforms with pictorial and video footage that the SSG of Osun State was physically present at the Osogbo Local Government Secretariat, Oke-Bale, on Monday, February 17, 2025, accompanied by individuals who are well known to the world to be political thugs, dangerous and cultists. This undeniable fact raises pertinent questions: Does this justify his unwarranted verbal attack on the person of Senator Ajibola Basiru? Did the Senator make any false claims regarding the SSG’s involvement in the unfortunate events that transpired at the Osogbo Local Government Secretariat?
Regrettably, instead of addressing the core issues, the SSG hastily issued a statement laced with unfounded allegations against Senator Basiru. While he claimed his actions were in the interest of maintaining peace, the reality suggests otherwise, everyone could see how he was dishing out instructions to members of the PDP and the thugs in all the videos circulated online.
His presence at the scene, alongside individuals identified as political enforcers, was a deliberate attempt to intimidate the reinstated APC-elected local government chairmen and councillors, which remains condemnable and politically incorrect.
For clarity, the Osogbo Local Government Secretariat is distinct from the Osun State Government Secretariat in Abeere. The actions of Hon. Teslim Igbalaye and his associates at the Local Government Secretariat constitute a clear case of undue interference in the affairs of the local government administration, which is unconstitutional. This reflects a pattern of disregard for democratic institutions, a trait the PDP has long been associated with. Given his history, it is unfortunate but not entirely surprising that the SSG would engage in such actions, demonstrating a limited grasp of governmental structures and protocols and separation of powers as enshrined in democratic principles.
Public office as remarkable as that of the SSG, demands a deep understanding of governance, decorum, and respect for democratic norms. Chieftancy titles, family names, and government positions should not be mistaken for competence. The APC remains resolute in its commitment to protecting democratic institutions and will not stand idly by while lawless actions seek to undermine the legitimacy of duly elected local government officials. The provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the recent Supreme Court ruling affirming the sanctity of local government autonomy must be respected. Any further attempt to subvert local government administration in Osun State will be met with the appropriate legal and political response.
In light of these developments, security agencies are urged to thoroughly investigate the role of Teslim Igbalaye, the SSG in the disruption at the Osogbo Local Government Secretariat and ensure that all individuals involved in attacks against APC members across the state are held accountable. The people of Osun State deserve leaders who uphold the rule of law, not individuals who resort to intimidation and disorder.
Despite this provocation, APC members and the good people of Osun State are advised to remain calm and steadfast in their commitment to democracy. The rule of law must prevail, and no amount of intimidation will derail the collective will of the people.
Ayotunde Rasheed Jimoh
Media Office,
Office of the National Secretary, APC,Abuja
