By John Dike, Osogbo
Osun State Government, a faction of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, and the All Progressives Congress are at odds over a proposed donation of operational vehicles to the Nigeria Police Force.
The state government has cautioned the police against accepting the donation from local government chairmen aligned with the APC, insisting that those currently administering the councils lack a legitimate mandate due to ongoing legal disputes surrounding their tenure.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the government described the proposed donation as inappropriate and potentially damaging to the neutrality of the police.
“The individuals parading themselves as council executives lack legal backing, as the matter of their tenure remains before the court,” the statement said, urging the police to act with caution to preserve institutional credibility.
The controversy followed an earlier announcement by the APC in the state, disclosing plans by its local government chairmen to donate operational vehicles to security agencies as part of efforts to strengthen crime-fighting capacity.
Reacting, APC spokesperson Kola Olabisi criticised the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke, arguing that security should not be politicised.
He maintained that providing logistical support to law enforcement agencies is essential for effective policing and the protection of lives and property.
However, the state government rejected the position, accusing the opposition of politicising security matters. It reiterated that any support from individuals whose legal status remains unresolved could erode public confidence in security institutions.
The government further disclosed that the dispute over the tenure of the council chairmen is currently before the courts, with rulings expected on May 12 and May 21, 2026. It also urged the Commissioner of Police in the state to remain neutral and avoid actions capable of undermining the credibility of the force.
Meanwhile, a faction of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria in Osun State has announced plans to distribute 300 motorcycles to security agencies across the state’s local government areas.
The forum of council chairmen disclosed that the motorcycles—popularly known as Okada—will be deployed across all 30 local government areas, including Ife-East Area Office, Modakeke, in the coming days.
According to a statement signed by the State ALGON Chairman, Hon. Samuel Idowu Abiodun, who also serves as Chairman of Ifedayo Local Government, each council will provide 10 motorcycles to security agencies within their jurisdictions.
The beneficiaries are expected to include the police, operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and local vigilante groups.
ALGON said the initiative aimed at strengthening grassroots security and complementing ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property.
“This is to complement the efforts of security agents across the local governments in the state. We remain resolute and committed to the safety of our people across the nooks and crannies,” the statement read.
The forum added that since its reinstatement, it has remained focused on improving grassroots governance and ensuring the welfare and security of residents, despite what it described as political distractions.
ALGON also commended security agencies for their professionalism, diligence, and patriotism, reassuring residents of continued commitment to their safety and well-being.
