AGF Fagbemi Enforcing Constitution, Not Fighting Osun People – Analyst Replies Osun PDP

A public affairs analyst, Comr Salam Mustapha, has fired back at recent remarks from Apesin Abiodun Adegoke, a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State. Adegoke had accused the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Prince Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, of supposedly undermining the people of Osun by enforcing a Supreme Court ruling regarding local government funds.

Mustapha didn't hold back, labeling Adegoke’s statements as “a mix of lies, crocodile tears, and political blackmail,” and claimed that the PDP chieftain was intentionally misleading the public for his own political advantage.

He clarified that the Federal Government isn’t withholding funds from Osun State; rather, it’s upholding the Constitution and a Supreme Court decision that requires funds to be allocated directly to local government areas—a change that citizens have long sought for better grassroots development.

“No one is taking Osun’s money. The funds are being sent straight to local governments, just as the Constitution dictates,” Mustapha stated in a release from Ile-Ife on Tuesday.

He emphasized that Prince Fagbemi is simply fulfilling his constitutional responsibilities by ensuring the law is followed and shouldn’t be criticized for it.

“Prince Fagbemi isn’t at odds with Governor Adeleke or Osun State. He’s just making sure the law is respected. If Governor Adeleke or his party has an issue with that, they should reflect on their own actions instead of blaming the Attorney General,” he added.

Mustapha also dismissed Adegoke’s attempt to involve President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the situation, calling it “dishonest and desperate.”

Mr. Salam pointed out, “The President isn’t the one who made the law, he didn’t issue the court ruling, and he’s certainly not withholding funds from local governments. In reality, President Tinubu is dedicated to transparency and upholding the Constitution — and that’s exactly what the Attorney General is standing up for.

He accused the PDP of trying to manipulate the emotions of the Osun people, emphasizing that the true obstacles to progress are those who resist giving financial independence to local councils.

The genuine citizens of Osun are looking for development, not theatrics. That can only be achieved when local governments are given the power they need. What’s truly harmful is hindering that progress — not upholding the law,” Mustapha asserted.

He wrapped up by urging political figures to stop distorting the truth for their own gain and instead back initiatives that foster democracy and good governance.

Prince Fagbemi isn’t making enemies for President Tinubu; he’s safeguarding the Constitution. The PDP should quit trying to turn legality into a narrative of political victimhood,” he added.