The political landscape in Osun State, Nigeria, has been marked by tension and controversy following a recent Court of Appeal judgment that declined to relist a case brought by the All Progressives Congress (APC). Governor Ademola Adeleke has issued a stern warning against incitement to violence by opposition leaders and certain radio stations in the state, emphasizing his commitment to upholding the rule of law and ensuring peace and stability. The governor’s warning comes amidst allegations that some opposition figures are inciting public unrest and resorting to threats of violence in response to the court’s decision.
Governor Adeleke, through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, expressed deep concern over the behavior of some radio stations, accusing them of providing a platform for guests to spread inflammatory rhetoric and make libelous accusations against public officials. He specifically criticized these stations for allegedly failing to uphold journalistic standards by neglecting to caution guests against making seditious statements and denying affected individuals the right to respond to the allegations. The governor directed the Commissioner for Information to summon the General Managers of the implicated radio stations for a briefing, signaling potential sanctions if broadcasting codes continue to be violated.
While reaffirming his support for freedom of the press, Governor Adeleke stressed the importance of adhering to established broadcasting codes and regulations. He underscored that responsible journalism is crucial for maintaining a peaceful and informed society and vowed to take appropriate action against any media outlet that disregards these principles. The governor emphasized that the right to free speech does not extend to inciting violence or spreading misinformation, particularly in a politically charged environment.
The governor’s admonishment extends to opposition politicians who, according to reports, have threatened to resort to extralegal measures in response to the Court of Appeal’s ruling. He unequivocally condemned such threats, warning that law enforcement agencies would respond decisively to any attempts to disrupt public order. Governor Adeleke reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to the rule of law, emphasizing that violence has no place in a democratic society and that those who advocate for it are enemies of the people.
The governor’s statement also addressed the ongoing issue of local government administration in the state, assuring the public that the matter is being resolved peacefully and legally. He cautioned against any actions that could lead to further bloodshed, emphasizing that those who promote violence will face the full force of the law. This indicates that the local government issue is a significant point of contention in the state and that the governor is committed to resolving it through legal and peaceful means.
The tension in Osun State highlights the delicate balance between freedom of expression and the need to maintain public order, particularly in the context of political disputes. Governor Adeleke’s strong stance against incitement to violence underscores his commitment to ensuring a peaceful resolution of the current political tensions. He has made it clear that his administration will not tolerate any attempts to undermine the rule of law, regardless of political affiliation. The situation calls for responsible conduct from all stakeholders, including political leaders, media outlets, and the general public, to ensure that disagreements are resolved peacefully and within the confines of the law.
