House Of Reps Moves To Restore Peace In Osun, Condemns Illegal LG Takeover Attempts
The House of Representatives has intervened in the Osun State local government crisis, calling on the Inspector General of Police (IGP), the Director General of the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security heads to immediately restore law and order in the state.
The intervention followed a motion of urgent public importance moved by Rep. Bamidele Salam and nine other lawmakers from Osun State during plenary in Abuja.
While presenting the motion, Salam warned that if the situation was not urgently addressed, it could escalate and cause further harm to the people of Osun State.
“On Monday, February 17, 2025, violence erupted across several parts of Osun State following attempts by sacked local government officials to forcefully reclaim their offices. These officials were removed by a court judgment in November 2022,” Salam stated.
He alleged that the sacked officials had resorted to breaking into local government secretariats without any legal backing or court order.
Salam also highlighted that the Governor of Osun State, as the Chief Security Officer, had raised the alarm on Sunday, February 16, about an imminent threat to peace and security. The governor had called on the IGP and other security agencies to take proactive measures to prevent violence.
Salam expressed concern that if the illegal takeover was not halted immediately, it might encourage others to resort to self-help in disputes over perceived rights and privileges
He further revealed that the violence had already resulted in the death of six persons, while several others had sustained serious injuries and were currently receiving treatment in various hospitals across the state.
“If this lawlessness is not promptly addressed, it could escalate into a more serious security challenge,” he warned.
Citing Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), Salam emphasized that the security and welfare of the people is the primary duty of the government.
In response to the motion, the House resolved to: Direct the IGP, DSS, and other security agencies to immediately restore peace and order in all affected areas of Osun State.
Set up an investigative committee to probe the causes of the crisis and recommend appropriate actions.
Urge the Attorney General of the Federation to advise all parties involved in the dispute to de-escalate tensions.
The House reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property across the nation and expressed confidence in the capacity of security agencies to restore normalcy in Osun State.
