An Abuja-based legal practitioner and human rights activist, Mr. Pelumi Olajengbesi, has cautioned against the forceful takeover of Local Government Secretariats in Osun State, warning that such actions could lead to anarchy.
In a statement released to journalists on Wednesday, Olajengbesi emphasised the need for all parties involved in the ongoing dispute over the control of Local Government Areas in the state to adhere strictly to the rule of law.
The lawyer condemned what he described as a “reckless and unlawful invasion of local government secretariats by certain individuals who claim to be acting under a purported court judgment.”
He said, “It is an embarrassment to my knowledge for anyone to assert that they possess a judgment while blatantly refusing to follow the laid down procedure for the enforcement of the said judgment.
“Let it be abundantly clear that there is no law or court judgment empowering anyone to invade and take over local government secretariats.
“Even if one were to assume—without conceding—that a judgment exists in favour of the APC, there is a clear and orderly process established under Nigerian law for the enforcement of judgment, and brute force and violence is not one of such processes.
“Enforcement of judgment is an important part of the Nigerian legal system; and as such, it must follow the prescribed procedure which does not permit resorting to self-help or anarchy at any given time.
“There are designated judicial and law enforcement mechanisms specifically responsible for executing court orders. Any attempt to take the law into one’s hands is not only illegal but also an act capable of breaching public peace and order in the state.”
Olajengbesi urged any political party or individuals who believe they have obtained a favourable judgment to pursue legal channels rather than resorting to forceful actions.
“If any political party or its agents genuinely believe that a judgment is in their favour, such a party is expected to follow the due process of the law. Any deviation from this, including forceful occupation of government offices or self-help measures as seen and reported in the news, amounts to lawlessness,” he said.
He further called on security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Police Force, to uphold their responsibilities and ensure that peace prevails in the state.
“The Nigerian Police Force and other security agencies must recognize that their actions—or inactions—are being closely watched. The world is observing, and history will document the role they play in either upholding the rule of law or enabling lawlessness.
“The people of Osun State deserve peace, stability, and governance under the law. No individual or group has the right to take that away through illegal means,” the statement further read.
The dispute over the control of local governments in Osun State has continued to generate tension, with political parties laying claim to leadership positions in the councils.
