The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has urged the immediate suspension of the local government elections scheduled in Osun State for Saturday, February 22, citing credible intelligence of imminent violence and serious security threats.
Joint reports indicate that various groups, including politically motivated factions and other interest parties, are mobilizing to incite unrest, potentially disrupting public order and undermining the democratic process.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, emphasized in a statement that proceeding with the elections under such volatile conditions could lead to widespread chaos, endangering lives and property.
He noted that the current security landscape is highly unstable and that the police, together with other security agencies, stand ready to take decisive action if necessary.
Furthermore, recent legal clarifications—stemming from a Court of Appeal judgment on February 10, 2025—have cast doubts on the legal foundation of the elections, reinforcing concerns over both security and judicial legitimacy.
Given these combined risks, the NPF strongly advises the Osun State government to postpone the elections immediately to safeguard public safety and ensure national stability.
