From Osun State to the Nation: American-Trained Governor Adeleke Exposes and Defeats the Dark Games of Police, Legal, and Political Actors -By John Egbeazien Oshodi

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s American education, bolstered by a degree in criminal justice and decades of experience living in the United States, has provided him with a profound understanding of democratic principles and modern law enforcement techniques. This global perspective has enabled him to challenge entrenched practices and reimagine governance in a system often mired in outdated legal and political maneuvers. His innovative approach stands as a testament to the benefits of international training in navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s legal and political landscape.

Challenging Security Paradigms and Embracing Alternative Law Enforcement

In the run-up to the local government elections, traditional security forces resorted to familiar scare tactics. The Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun not only advised against holding the elections but also threatened to withdraw security by predicting inevitable chaos—hoodlums and violent criminals being a familiar refrain in Nigeria’s political playbook. Despite credible intelligence warning of potential violence, as repeatedly highlighted by Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi and echoed by the Nigeria Police Force, Governor Adeleke’s resolve did not falter. Instead, he decisively insisted that the elections must proceed and pivoted towards modern solutions by embracing Amotekun, an alternative regional security outfit that the police and other political powers had long fought to suppress.

Resistance to Amotekun and the Politics of State Police

The emergence of Amotekun was not a spontaneous development but the result of deliberate efforts by security forces and political elites to prevent the existence of a state-controlled police force. For years, the established powers, including the Inspector General of Police and other influential political figures, resisted the formation of such a force because it threatened their traditional monopoly over law enforcement. Now, as Amotekun temporarily filled the role of state police—delivering innovative and effective security—it has become evident why these powers were so determined to block its existence. Their reluctance to accept a system where security is decentralized and more responsive to local needs underscores a broader resistance to reform in Nigeria’s security architecture.

Election Dynamics, Judicial Interference, and a Resounding Victory

Amid mounting tension and conflicting directives, the elections in Osun State unfolded with surprising calm. The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secured a historic victory by winning all the chairmanship and councillorship seats in all 30 local government areas—a sweeping result confirmed by Hashim Abioye, Chairman of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission, who announced that the PDP had also cleared all 332 councillorship seats. Meanwhile, the judiciary—known for its shameful, conflicting orders emanating from state, federal, and appellate courts—played its customary part. Amidst the legal wrangling and multiple court directives, Governor Adeleke remained resolute, recognizing that federal courts have no jurisdiction over local elections. This judicial chaos, rather than disrupting the process, further underscored the resilience of a system determined to uphold democratic values.

Psychological Warfare and Political Rivalries:

Beyond the realm of physical security, senior figures—including the Inspector General of Police—deployed psychological tactics to instill fear and uncertainty among the electorate. This recurring strategy, often used by the police to deter protests and elections by warning of imminent threats from hoodlums and violent actors, is a familiar game to many Nigerians. Governor Adeleke, well-versed in navigating such dynamics, demonstrated that these manufactured security concerns would not derail the democratic process. Although these maneuvers were designed to exploit deep-seated insecurities and halt the progression of democracy, they ultimately failed to shake public confidence. The situation was further complicated by the involvement of Bola Tinubu—Nigeria’s President with deep-rooted connections to Osun State and clear aspirations to extend APC influence—standing in stark contrast to Governor Adeleke’s unwavering loyalty to the PDP. This difference has laid bare the extreme lengths to which established powers will go to maintain their grip on both security and political control. 

Defying the AGF: Osun’s Commitment to Democracy

Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke defied the directive of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, to halt local council elections, demonstrating that his commitment to democracy outweighed political maneuvering. Despite legal developments that reinstated removed local officials until October 2025 and warnings about potential constitutional issues, Governor Adeleke remained determined to advance local development and ensure genuine democratic participation in Osun State. In the end, the elections proceeded successfully and resulted in a comprehensive victory, bringing a welcome resolution to the longstanding debates over governance.

Defiant Messaging and the Role of Amotekun

In a powerful repudiation of outdated tactics, Governor Adeleke’s nephew, Davido—a renowned Nigerian musician trained in an American college—captured the public’s imagination with his defiant tweet, “We go use Amotekun.” This bold declaration not only challenged the Nigeria Police Force’s warnings but also signaled a clear intent to rely on innovative security solutions if traditional methods failed. Davido’s message, which drew mixed reactions online, epitomized a new era of political communication that leverages modern ideas to counteract the old legal, police, and political games. His statement, along with Governor Adeleke’s own insistence, resonated deeply as a rejection of practices that toy with the minds of American-educated leaders in today’s global age.

International Engagement and Critique of Illegality

During a period of intense political turbulence, while British diplomats led by Deputy High Commissioner Jonny Baxter were visiting Osogbo, Governor Adeleke seized the opportunity to expose the inherent illegality and moral bankruptcy of Nigeria’s traditional political machinations. In a pointed exchange, he criticized Inspector General Kayode Egbetokun for colluding with the APC to enforce a non-existent court order—a move he condemned as a “rape on democracy.” His remarks not only spotlighted the perverse tactics employed by security agents and political elites but also underscored the broader issue of outdated legal and security games that have no place in today’s global environment. As I paraphrase the governor, his message was clear: don’t play with American minds—those who engage in such manipulative tactics are meddling with principles shaped by modern democratic ideals, and their archaic methods are failing, as the resounding electoral victory decisively proves.

A Call for Modern Governance and Democratic Integrity

Governor Adeleke’s steadfast commitment to modernizing governance and ensuring the integrity of the democratic process stands as a beacon for future leadership in Nigeria. His approach rejects the manipulative tactics of old—practices that were designed to prevent the emergence of a state-controlled police force like Amotekun. Now, as Amotekun temporarily fills the crucial role of state police, it becomes clear that established powers have long resisted any move towards decentralized, responsive security. This refusal to embrace reform is a major reason why traditional political and security establishments are increasingly out of step with the demands of a modern democracy. The unequivocal electoral victory—where the PDP swept every local seat—demonstrates that when contemporary strategies are embraced, democracy not only endures but thrives.

A Blueprint for the Future

The unfolding events in Osun State offer a comprehensive case study in overcoming institutional inertia and political manipulation through visionary leadership. Governor Adeleke’s blend of American-influenced expertise and a deep commitment to democratic principles has not only secured a peaceful election but has also set a new standard for governance in Nigeria. His resolute stand against outdated practices, coupled with a pragmatic embrace of innovative security measures like Amotekun, has ensured that the democratic process remains intact. This historic win by the PDP—marked by a clean sweep across all 30 local government areas—serves as a resounding testament to the power of modern governance in an era where traditional games are rapidly losing their grip on the future.

Judicial and Security Neutrality:

In an era marked by intense political rivalry, courts and police must avoid becoming entangled in partisan disputes. When these institutions allow themselves to be drawn into interpolitical matters, they risk being exploited as mere tools in the power struggle—an involvement that can lead to both local and international disgrace. Maintaining strict neutrality is essential for safeguarding the integrity of justice and security, as well as for preserving public trust. By steering clear of political entanglements, these bodies can ensure that their core mission remains intact and free from the corrupting influence of external pressures and partisan manipulation. Let us paraphrase Governor Adeleke here, recently remarking with a touch of humor, “Be careful, or your actions might have you joining the ranks of those ‘who rape democracy’; we all know how it goes—just ask those not eligible for Canadian visas due to questionable behavior!” His pointed comment serves as a sharp warning against meddling in political games.

International Humor and Warnings:

During discussions with British diplomats, Governor Adeleke did not miss the chance to inject a wry observation into the discourse. He humorously cautioned that those who continue to employ outdated, manipulative tactics might soon find themselves as unwelcome as a Canadian denied a visa—a fate reminiscent of recent high-profile cases involving Nigerian security figures. In his own words, he warned that such practices could earn them a global reputation as the very ones who “rape democracy.” This ironic remark underscores the futility of interpolitical meddling by courts and police, reminding us that in today’s interconnected world, archaic power games can lead to international ridicule and lasting disgrace.

Ultimately, for Nigeria to truly embrace democracy, its institutions must evolve beyond mere rhetoric and symbolic gestures. Courts and security agencies need to remain neutral and free from partisan influence to preserve the integrity of the democratic process. As Governor Adeleke’s pointed remarks and the overwhelming electoral mandate suggest, the time has come for Nigeria to become democratic not just in name, but in every facet of governance. Only by shedding outdated legal, police, and political games can the nation earn genuine respect on the global stage and build a future where democracy is lived, not merely proclaimed.

This psychologist has no personal or other affiliations with Governor Adeleke or any political figures mentioned herein. The sole motivation is a sincere desire to see Nigeria fully embrace and live the principles of true democracy.

John Egbeazien Oshodi

Oshodi Open Door, also known as Oshodi Open Door Public Training (OOPDT, pronounced opidt), is a public awareness initiative promoting transparency, accountability, and integrity in Africa through educational articles and resources at jos5930458@aol.com, and offers specialized Timely Response Solutions (TRS) training at minimal or no cost.

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi is an American psychologist, educator, author specializing in forensic clinical psychology, cross-cultural psychology, police prison science, social justice. Born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, he is the son of a 37-year veteran of the Nigeria Police Force, a background that shaped his commitment to justice, security, psychological research.

A pioneer in forensic psychology, he introduced state-of-the-art forensic psychology to Nigeria in 2011 through the National Universities Commission (NUC) Nasarawa State University, where he served as an Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology. His contributions extend beyond academia into psychological health behavioral change initiatives through the Oshodi Foundation the Center for Psychological Forensic Services.

Professor Oshodi has held faculty positions at Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Broward College, Nova Southeastern University, Lynn University. He is also a contributing faculty member in the doctoral undergraduate psychology programs at Walden University serves as a virtual professor with Weldios University and Iscom University.

Beyond academia, he is a government consultant for forensic-clinical psychological services in the USA previously served as Interim Associate Dean Assistant Professor at Broward College, Florida.

He has published extensively on mental health, justice, institutional reform is the founder of the Psychoafricalysis theory, which integrates African sociocultural perspectives into psychology.

Professor Oshodi remains an influential force in advancing psychology institutional reform globally, particularly in Africa.