Osun Crisis: “Osun is not a battleground, rule of law must prevail”- Gov. Makinde Urges APC to Resolve Disputes Through Legal Channels

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde cautions the APC against destabilizing Osun State, urging political actors to resolve disputes through legal channels and uphold the rule of law for peace and stability.

In a strongly worded address delivered on Sunday in Osogbo, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has issued a stern warning to the All Progressives Congress (APC) against any attempts to destabilize neighboring Osun State. Speaking on behalf of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum at the swearing-in ceremony of newly elected local government chairmen in Osun, Makinde emphasized that any disruption of peace must be countered by adhering to the rule of law and using proper legal channels.

Governor Makinde, whose remarks have already sparked considerable discussion among political observers, stated, “Osun should not be turned into a battleground over issues that can be resolved by the judiciary.”

By cautioning against the use of self-help methods in resolving disputes, Makinde underscored the need for all political actors, including the APC, to avoid actions that could lead to unrest and chaos. “Nobody should resort to self-help. Even if you have court judgements, there’s a process. Let the process go through,” he insisted, reiterating that abiding by established legal procedures is essential for maintaining stability.

During his address, Governor Makinde reiterated the PDP’s steadfast commitment to good governance and peaceful resolution of conflicts. He firmly stated, “We do not want Wild Wild West. They should stay away from this group. We just want to peacefully deliver dividends to our people.”

Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, joined Makinde in stressing the importance of learning from history. Both leaders made it clear that Osun State – and by extension, the entire region – must not be plunged into crisis due to partisan infighting or the misuse of federal influence.

Criticizing any attempts to use federal might as a pretext for bypassing legal processes, Makinde stated, “You cannot, because you have so-called federal might, want to propagate the process. This is a federal arrangement.”

He warned that the abuse of federal power to force through decisions without proper legal recourse would only lead to long-term instability. His comments came amid growing tensions in Osun, where political rivalries have, in the past, threatened to disrupt peace. The governor’s remarks serve as a timely reminder to all stakeholders that the judiciary and legal processes remain the cornerstone of conflict resolution.

Makinde’s warning against resorting to self-help was unequivocal. He elaborated, “If anybody has a judgment, there is a procedure for enforcement of court decisions. It is illegal to resort to self-help.”

By highlighting this point, Makinde aimed to dissuade any faction from taking extrajudicial actions that might escalate into broader societal unrest. His insistence on following due process is in line with his broader vision of governance that prioritizes peace, stability, and the proper functioning of the legal system.

The governor’s remarks come at a time when political tensions in Osun are on the rise. Recent disputes and a volatile political environment have raised concerns about the potential for conflict, not just within Osun but also across neighboring states. The PDP Governors’ Forum, of which Makinde is a vocal member, has consistently championed the need for resolving conflicts through legal and peaceful means. Their message is clear: political disagreements must not be allowed to undermine social stability or lead to violent confrontations.

The broader context of Makinde’s warning is also linked to ongoing debates about federal influence in state affairs. Many critics argue that excessive federal intervention or the misuse of federal power can destabilize regional governance. By urging the APC and other political actors to refrain from using federal influence to bypass judicial processes, Makinde is calling for a more balanced approach to governance—one that respects both the autonomy of states and the sanctity of legal procedures.

A Vision for Peaceful Governance and Political Maturity

Governor Makinde’s speech was not only a cautionary tale but also a call to action. He challenged all political stakeholders to embrace a model of governance based on peaceful dialogue and the rule of law. This approach, he argued, would not only prevent unnecessary conflicts but would also create an environment where political progress is achieved through consensus and mutual respect.

His remarks have significant implications for the political future of both Osun and the wider region. By setting a high standard for political conduct, Makinde is effectively urging political parties—especially the APC—to channel their energies into constructive dialogue rather than destructive confrontation. This message resonates with many Nigerians who are increasingly calling for political maturity and responsible leadership.

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Governor Seyi Makinde’s emphatic call for peaceful political processes and strict adherence to the rule of law marks a critical moment in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to maintain political stability in the region. By urging the APC and all political actors to refrain from destabilizing actions and instead resolve disputes through legal channels, Makinde is championing a vision of governance that prioritizes peace, legal integrity, and the welfare of the people. As Osun State braces for the future amid growing political tensions, his message serves as both a warning and an invitation for all stakeholders to work together in a spirit of mutual respect and legal compliance.

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