A prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State and respected public commentator, Apesin Abiodun Adegoke, has strongly criticized the reported seizure of local government funds by the Federal Government, describing it as an “act of wickedness” targeted not at Governor Ademola Adeleke, but at the people of Osun State.
Speaking on Monday, Adegoke expressed concern that the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi SAN, is unknowingly creating political enemies for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Osun State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“This action is not hurting Governor Adeleke — it is hurting the people of Osun State. The grassroots are suffering. Prince Lateef Fagbemi, a royal blue-blood from Ijagbo in Kwara State, must not let partisan interest cloud his sense of fairness. I know him personally — I was once a banker to him and his late father, Oba Salawudeen Olagunju Adeyeye Fagbemi (Obembe II), the Onijagbo of Ijagbo. He was a man of honor. He must not let politics ruin that legacy,” Adegoke said.
He went on to highlight the political implications of the decision, noting that prior to the development, many Osun voters were positively disposed to supporting President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027 due to his affiliation to the state and the body language of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
“From our organic surveys and grassroots feedback, over 90% of Osun voters had made up their minds to ensure continuity for Senator Ademola Adeleke beyond 2026 — and were also open to considering President Tinubu for 2027. But now, sentiment is shifting. People are angry. One respondent even described Tinubu’s government as ‘heartless and wicked.”’’ These are dangerous sentiments if left unaddressed.”
Adegoke accused elements within the APC of playing double games — pretending to support President Tinubu while rejoicing over perceived setbacks for Osun State.
“I have read comments from APC loyalists on social media expressing glee over the challenges Adeleke may face completing his landmark projects. That alone tells you that APC is not aligned with the development of Osun. If anyone in APC is promising President Tinubu votes in Osun, they are deceiving him.”
He concluded by calling on Prince Fagbemi to act with the dignity and neutrality his office demands:
“I urge His Excellency, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, to stop making enemies for Mr. President. Feel your royal heritage and act with honor. Omooba o gbudọ jagun bí ẹrú — a prince must never fight like a slave.”
