Appeal Court Ruling: The Consequences of Violence for Solution - Akin Adeyi By this new development of yesterday, the Osun PDP has two major options: one is to approach the Supreme Court, and the other is to resort to self-help by fomenting trouble. Both options have consequences, but approaching the court is the most acceptable way of resolving disputes globally. This is precisely what the APC Osun did in this case, and it paid off. Had they also contemplated violence, as rumored of the PDP, their story wouldn't be a joyful one today. Therefore, the PDP should also consider going to court, as the judgment explicitly states that the option of appeal remains open to them. The second option available to them is the use of violence, which is clearly the inferior choice. It is akin to malevolent winds that bring no benefit to anyone. Should the situation escalate into a bloody conflict for both sides, with the potential to engulf the state in a deadly cycle of violence that could lead to the declaration of a state of emergency, it is the Adelekes/PDP that will ultimately suffer the most losses. In the event of a state of emergency declaration, the president will exercise his prerogative powers to appoint an administrator, who will likely be a member or supporter of his party, to oversee the state. This individual will also be responsible for supervising the election. As we are all aware, this implies that the Adelekes will likely relinquish the remainder of their tenure, approximately two years. As Bob Marley sang in his album, many more will have to suffer, many more will have to die….don’t ask me why. Particularly, many PDP members will suffer. They have been absent from government for twelve years. They briefly held office two years ago. They haven’t enjoyed any spurs of office. Hence, the need for them to be careful in their reaction to this. Hashim Abioye, the OSIEC chairman, insists on proceeding with the planned Local Government election, which may not be advisable given the legal implications. As a lawyer, he should understand that yesterday's judgement has created a legal obstacle course. Whether or not the previously sacked APC local government bosses resumed their duties today is immaterial; they remain the legally recognized council leaders. They can leverage the same laws and courts to inflict further damage on the PDP/OSIEC. Detailing the specifics of this approach is not required. Trust the APC for always being on top of its game unlike the PDP that is always behind and reactionary. Following the delivery of the judgement yesterday, numerous press releases have been issued. The PDP and Adeleke government were clearly shaken, as evidenced by the contradictory statements in their press releases. Their predicament is understandable. Relinquishing control of the local government, which has been their stronghold of pilfering the state’s treasury, will be a challenging task. The prospect of incoming party chairmen from the opposing side of the political spectrum is a daunting reality for the ruling party. It is pointless to counsel the APC on strategy at this time. They excel at keeping a level head, especially when others may be losing theirs. The Osun PDP, on the other hand, requires guidance. They need to learn that violence and distorting facts to fit their narrative is not the best approach in this situation. Instead, they should borrow sense from the APC and seek refuge in court. Akoni Oodua Ayeniromo Orunogbeke.