By John Dike, Osogbo
The Association of Concerned Local Government Workers of Osun State has declared support for the ongoing implementation of local government autonomy in the state, while calling on all local government employees to resume duties immediately following months of industrial action.
Speaking at a press conference held in Osogbo on Thursday, the group’s State Coordinator, Comrade Adedayo Adekunle, called on workers across Osun’s local government councils to return to work on Monday, describing the prolonged strike led by the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) as unjustifiable and harmful.
“The strike has lasted over seven months. The excuse of insecurity is no longer tenable—there is peace across local government areas. We are the landlords of these secretariats, and it’s shameful that we’ve vacated our offices for rodents and reptiles,” Adekunle said.
He accused the current NULGE leadership in Osun State, led by Comrade Dr. Nathaniel Kehinde Ogungbangbe, of acting unilaterally and ignoring the welfare of workers.
The group hailed the actualization of local government autonomy as a landmark achievement and commended President Bola Tinubu, the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Accountant-General of the Federation, and the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria for facilitating the process.
Adekunle also paid tribute to the departed Comrade Ibrahim Khaleel, former NULGE National President, who he described as a martyr for the cause of local government autonomy.
“Today, we are in a joyous mood. Local government autonomy is finally a reality in Osun. This is the freedom we have fought for—freedom for the grassroots,” Adekunle added
The association also vowed to resist any misappropriation or misuse of the newly released local government funds, warning the recently reinstated All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmen and councillors to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public resources.
“We will fight against any mismanagement of local government funds. These funds belong to the grassroots and must be used judiciously to serve the people,” Adekunle stated.
The group revealed that a staff audit has been scheduled for next week to verify the actual number of personnel currently in service across local councils. Workers were instructed to report to their respective councils with relevant documentation including their appointment letter, confirmation letter, and last promotion letter.
“This audit is essential for identifying bonafide staff and avoiding job loss. All law-abiding and patriotic local government workers should return to their duty posts without delay,” said Comrade Akin Adepoju, the group’s State Secretary
Reaffirming its non-partisan status, the association cautioned against any form of violence or political manipulation, warning that any attacks on its members would be met with serious reprisals.
“We have exhausted our patience. Any attack on our members will have consequences. We are peaceful, but we will not be victims,” the group stated, calling on security agencies to ensure protection for workers willing to resume duties.
The association also accused the Ogungbangbe-led NULGE leadership of being parochial, self-centered, and disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary local government staff.
The group announced that the legal challenge to the controversial March 4 NULGE election will be heard on October 22, 2025, at the National Industrial Court (NIC), expressing hope that justice would prevail.
“Our people are retiring without dignity. Some are in hospital beds, and our union dues are being used for political loyalty. Enough is enough,” the statement concluded.
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