Enforce Laws to Safeguard Democracy, Adeleke Tells Reps
Sunday Okunade,
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has urged members of the House of Representatives to be more alive to their constitutional responsibilities by ensuring that laws passed by the National Assembly are effectively implemented to protect Nigeria’s democracy, stressing that lawmaking alone is not enough, but strong oversight and enforcement are necessary to guarantee that the will of the people prevails in the country’s democratic process.
Governor Adeleke made the call while addressing House Committee on Public Accounts of the federal House of representatives who paid on him a courtesy visit in his office, State Secretariat Complex, Abere. He noted that the National Assembly plays a critical role in strengthening democratic institutions.
According to him, “legislators must go beyond passing laws but ensuring compliance through proper oversight and due process”. He said Nigerians expect lawmakers to defend democratic values and ensure that electoral laws are fully implemented, particularly as the nation prepares for upcoming elections.
The governor also highlighted the importance of credible elections, describing them as the foundation for sustaining democratic governance, warning that any attempt to undermine the electoral process would amount to a betrayal of the sacrifices made by heroes of Nigeria’s democratic struggle. Adeleke emphasised that protecting democracy requires allowing votes to count and respecting the supremacy of the people’s mandate.
Speaking on August 15 governorship election in Osun, Adeleke said the poll represents a significant milestone for Nigeria’s democratic evolution as it precedes the 2027 Nigerian general election. He noted that the state would be under national and global scrutiny, emphasising the need for stakeholders to ensure a free, fair and transparent electoral process that reflects the true will of the electorate.
While expressing confidence in his administration’s performance since assuming office in 2022, Adeleke said he would once again seek the mandate of the people, insisting that respect for voters’ choices remains the most effective way to preserve and strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
Speaking , the Deputy Chairman of the Committee Hon. Jeremiah Umar praised the state for the warm reception accorded to the committee. He particularly commended the Governor for his support.
Also speaking,the Chairman of the Committee, Hon. Bamidele Salam highlighted the Governor’s achievements in advancing infrastructural development, particularly in the education and health sectors, as well as his efforts in implementing economic reforms, settling half of the salaries owed by the previous administration, and providing welfare packages for workers.
Hon. Umar who declared that the Committee is in the State for five days training and oversight functions, urged the Governor to sustain these initiatives, emphasizing that the committee takes pride in his leadership and the progress made under his administration. He encouraged the continuation of policies and projects that have positively impacted the state and its residents, reinforcing the committee’s endorsement of the Governor’s performance.
Present at the meeting were Secretary to the state Government, Alhaji Teslim Igbalaye, Head of Service, Mr Ayanleye Aina alongside other members of the state executive council.