Adeleke Warns Opposition: Violence Over Appeal Court Ruling Will Not Be Tolerated
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has issued a stern warning to opposition leaders and media outlets in the state, cautioning against incitement and threats of violence following the Court of Appeal’s recent refusal to relist a case filed by the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akure.
In a strongly worded statement released on Sunday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke expressed grave concern over what he described as a disturbing trend of inciting rhetoric coming from certain political leaders and radio stations since the appellate court’s decision last Friday.
Adeleke particularly took aim at some radio stations in Osun, accusing them of enabling guests to make seditious, libellous remarks on air and of failing to uphold broadcasting standards. He noted that affected stations had not only allowed inflammatory statements to go unchecked but also denied the right of reply to those being publicly maligned.
Describing such conduct as a breach of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) code, the governor warned that any media house found flouting the rules would face sanctions. He instructed the Commissioner for Information to immediately summon the General Managers of all implicated radio stations for a high-level briefing ahead of possible regulatory action.
While affirming his administration’s respect for press freedom, Adeleke emphasized that “responsible journalism begins with adherence to ethical and legal standards.” He vowed that no outlet would be allowed to incite the public under the guise of free expression.
The governor also lashed out at members of the opposition who, during recent interviews, allegedly threatened to resort to self-help and street violence in response to the legal defeat. He described such threats as reckless, warning that security agencies would not hesitate to act decisively against any political actor found inciting unrest.
“Let it be clear: Osun will not be thrown into chaos over political desperation,” Adeleke declared. “The local government matter is progressing through lawful channels, and there will be no tolerance for any form of violence.”
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the rule of law and peaceful governance, the governor urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, assuring them that justice would take its full course without bloodshed or intimidation.
“Those who choose to promote violence to achieve political goals are not just lawbreakers—they are enemies of the people,” he stated firmly.
