The Justice Development and Peace Makers Centre (JDPMC) has taken a step back from observing the February 22, 2025, local government elections in Osun State.
In a statement earlier to announce their withdrawal as the poll was in progress, the body cited irreconcilable security concerns between key stakeholders. The organization stated that disagreements between the Nigerian Police Force and the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) over election security had made it impossible to guarantee a credible and transparent electoral process.
According to the JDPMC, its decision did not reflect an endorsement of any legal argument surrounding the election but was strictly based on the lack of security assurances. The organization also cited the absence of police officers at polling units and the failure to enforce curfews as indicators of an election environment vulnerable to disruptions and potential violence.
Recall that JDPMC, an arm of the Catholic Diocese of Osogbo, had been actively involved in mobilizing stakeholders for a free and fair election, engaging with OSSIEC, political parties, civil society organizations, and security agencies.
However, following a contentious ruling by the Court of Appeal on February 10, 2025, the organization faced increasing challenges, as OSSIEC reportedly became less cooperative. This development, coupled with rising concerns over lawlessness and violent incidents, led JDPMC to question the credibility of the election.
