Nigeria Police orders immediate suspension of Osun LG election

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has called for the immediate suspension of the Osun State local government elections, citing security threats and legal complications.

In a statement released on Friday night by Force Public Relations Officer Muyiwa Adejobi, the police expressed concerns over intelligence reports indicating that various groups, including political actors, are planning to incite unrest and destabilize the state if the elections proceed as scheduled on Saturday, February 22, 2025.

The elections were set to take place across 30 local government areas (LGAs) and 323 wards, but the police warned that allowing them to continue under these conditions could lead to widespread violence, putting lives and property at risk.

While emphasizing that security agencies are on high alert, the NPF stressed that suspending the elections is the best course of action to prevent clashes and maintain order.

Beyond security concerns, the police also highlighted legal issues surrounding the elections. According to the statement, the Attorney-General of the Federation clarified that a Court of Appeal ruling on February 10, 2025, overturned an earlier Federal High Court decision, raising questions about the legal basis of the polls.

Given both security and legal factors, the police urged the Osun State Government to immediately halt the elections to avoid potential crises.

The NPF reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives, maintaining law and order, and ensuring that the democratic process is upheld. Political parties and stakeholders were advised to act responsibly and prioritize public safety in light of the latest developments.