Ahead Of The Saturday February 22nd, 2025 Osun State Local Government Elections, HON. ADEWUMI ADEYEMI IREKANDU, Member, Osun State House of Assembly, Representing Obokun State Constituency, has called on every eligible voter in Obokun and across Osun State to come out and exercise their constitutional right to vote.
According to statement made on Friday, He said;
“Local governance directly impacts our daily lives—our roads, healthcare, education, and markets—and the only way to ensure credible and competent leadership at the grassroots level is through democratic elections.
This election is not just a political event; it is a constitutional requirement. The 1999 Constitution (as altered) guarantees a system of democratically elected Local Government Councils under Section 7(1), and State Independent Electoral Commissions (SIECs) are empowered by Section 197(1)(b) to conduct these elections.
In compliance with the Constitution, the Osun State House of Assembly, as the legally recognised legislative body, has enacted laws empowering the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) to organise and oversee local government elections.
Furthermore, Section 4(6) & (7) of the Constitution grants State Houses of Assembly the exclusive power to legislate on matters related to Local Government elections within their jurisdiction.
It is important to note that no competent court has issued an order stopping this election. The Federal High Court and the Court of Appeal have previously ruled on the validity of past elections, and in line with these judicial pronouncements, this election serves to fulfill the constitutional obligation of ensuring democratic local governance.
While concerns have been raised in certain quarters, it must be emphasised that no entity, institution, or advisory can override the constitutional process for democratic elections unless explicitly ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction.
Therefore, I urge all eligible voters in Obokun and across Osun State to turn out en masse, vote peacefully, and play their part in strengthening democracy.
Security agencies are expected to act professionally and ensure that the electoral process is conducted in a safe, transparent, and credible manner. The Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) must uphold its duty of ensuring a free and fair election process.
As public servants and stakeholders in Osun State’s democracy, we must all ensure that this election is conducted peacefully and in full compliance with constitutional provisions.
Under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, the Osun State House of Assembly remains steadfast in its commitment to democracy, transparency, and the rule of law.
Go out early, vote peacefully, and legally defend your votes.
Together, we will build a stronger, more democratic Obokun and Osun State!,” statement reads.