By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has reaffirmed that the safety and security of its members remain non-negotiable as local government workers prepare to resume dutiws across the state.
NLC state Chairman, Comrade Christopher Arapasopo, stated this in a personally signed statement issued on Wednesday, in which he commended members of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Osun State Chapter, for their resilience and discipline during the prolonged strike caused by political tensions within local government councils.
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According to Arapasopo, the Congress had earlier directed all local government workers in Osun State to withdraw their services with effect from 12 midnight on Monday, February 17, 2025, due to safety concerns arising from the political upheaval across council secretariats.
He, however, announced the suspension of the industrial action, directing all affected workers to resume work on Monday, January 5, 2026.
The NLC Chairman explained that the decision followed the judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria, delivered on December 5, 2025, in Suit No. SC/CV/773/2025, between the Attorney General of Osun State and the Attorney General of the Federation.
“The Supreme Court, as the highest court of the land, delivered a judgment that is binding on all citizens, as provided for in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement read.
He noted that the apex court’s ruling clearly validated the democratically elected Local Government Chairmen and Councillors in Osun State, who were elected on February 22, 2025, and sworn in on February 23, 2025.
In view of the resumption, Arapasopo called on all security agencies to ensure adequate protection for workers and public facilities.
“We hereby call on all security agencies to perform their civic responsibility by ensuring watertight security for all our members upon their resumption at all Local Government Council secretariats, as well as the safety of lives and properties,” he said.
He warned against any form of harassment or intimidation of workers, stressing that no employee should be bullied, molested, or coerced in the course of carrying out lawful duties.
The NLC further cautioned that the statement would serve as formal notice to security agencies in the event of any breakdown of law and order resulting from security lapses.
“This press release will be used as proof that the Congress has properly informed the security agencies of a possible threat should law and order break down as a result of lack of adequate security,” the statement added.
While encouraging workers to resume duties without fear or anxiety, the Congress assured members that their welfare and safety remain a top priority.
The NLC also warned against acts of victimisation or vendetta against any labour leader or worker, insisting that the principle of neutrality in the public service must be respected.
“The Nigeria Labour Congress has always stood as a bastion of democratic principles. We remain resolute in our commitment to defending the rights, welfare, and safety of all our members in Osun State,” Arapasopo declared.
