CSOs Challenges FG On Osun LGAs’ Leadership Dispute

Two civil society organisations (CSOs) have urged federal authorities to intervene in what they described as a lingering issue of compliance with court rulings regarding the leadership of local government areas in Osun State.

The Nigeria Society for Democracy and Good Governance (NSDGG) and the Coalition of Civil Society for Justice and Equity have both appealed to the attorney general of the federation, Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), and the minister of finance to act in line with existing judicial pronouncements and electoral outcomes.

In a separate peaceful demonstration, the groups referenced the February 22, 2025, local government elections conducted by the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC), which, they stated, resulted in the election of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidates as chairmen and councillors across the state’s local councils.

According to NSDGG, some previous council officials associated with the All Progressives Congress (APC) continue to occupy local government offices, despite court judgments affirming the PDP’s electoral victory.

NSDGG spokesperson Amb Usman Saidu Calculus said the situation raises questions about the integrity of the democratic process and the rule of law.

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He further urged the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Finance to work together to ensure that local government funds are allocated in accordance with the valid mandates arising from the February 2025 elections.

“Adherence to court rulings strengthens democracy and reinforces lawful governance,” NSDGG noted, emphasising the importance of financial compliance with judicial outcomes.

In a related call, the Coalition of Civil Society for Justice and Equity stressed the need for public funds to be directed solely to local government officials with a valid electoral mandate.

The coalition chairman, Comrade Collins Idowu, called on the finance minister to “recognise the duly elected PDP Chairmen and Councillors” and to avoid the continued release of funds to any persons not recognised by law or election.

“The current situation goes beyond politics, it’s about upholding the rule of law,” the coalition stated, citing court rulings that have reportedly invalidated the tenure of certain APC-affiliated officials still operating in the councils.

The coalition warned that continuing to allocate funds to officials without legal or electoral backing may erode public trust and create confusion in local governance structures.

Both groups urged swift collaboration between the Ministry of Finance and Justice to implement court decisions and restore full democratic order at the grassroots level in Osun State.

While no formal response has been issued by the federal ministries involved, the calls add to growing attention on local government administration and the need for transparency and compliance with legal processes.