The political crisis in Osun State has taken a new turn as the reinstated local government chairmen have issued a 72-hour ultimatum to striking local government workers, demanding that they return to work or face dismissal. This development comes amid ongoing tensions between the state government and the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmen, who were removed from office by Governor Ademola Adeleke but later reinstated by a court ruling.
Background of the Crisis
The crisis began when Governor Ademola Adeleke, upon assuming office in November 2022, sacked all local government chairmen who were elected under the previous administration of former Governor Gboyega Oyetola. Adeleke’s administration argued that their election was unconstitutional, as it was conducted at the tail end of Oyetola’s tenure under controversial circumstances.
However, in a recent court ruling, the chairmen were reinstated, sparking renewed political tension in the state. Despite the court’s verdict, many local government workers have refused to return to their offices, citing fears of political instability and confusion over which administration they should recognize.
Chairmen’s Ultimatum to Workers
In a statement issued by the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) Osun Chapter, the reinstated chairmen warned that any worker who failed to resume duties within 72 hours would face serious disciplinary actions, including dismissal.
The statement emphasized that the court ruling had legitimized their return to office, and as such, local government workers had no reason to stay away from work. They urged civil servants to comply immediately or risk losing their positions.
Workers’ Concerns and Reactions
Local government workers, however, remain divided on the issue. Some employees have expressed fears that resuming work under the reinstated chairmen might put them at odds with the state government, which has not officially recognized their return. Others worry about possible victimization by either faction in the long-running power struggle.
The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in Osun has also reacted, calling for caution in handling the situation. They have urged Governor Adeleke and the reinstated chairmen to seek a peaceful resolution rather than resorting to threats and ultimatums.
State Government’s Position
So far, the Osun State Government has not officially responded to the ultimatum issued by the chairmen. However, sources within the state administration indicate that Governor Adeleke remains firm in his stance that the previous local government elections were illegal. His government may challenge the court ruling or take further actions to prevent the reinstated chairmen from exercising full authority.
Political Implications
The ongoing crisis has raised concerns about the state’s political stability, with many stakeholders warning that it could disrupt local governance and service delivery. The PDP-led government in Osun and the APC opposition continue to battle for control, and this latest development could further deepen tensions in the state.
Political analysts suggest that if the conflict is not handled properly, it may lead to a total breakdown of local government administration, affecting governance at the grassroots level. As the deadline for resumption approaches, all eyes are on Governor Adeleke, the reinstated chairmen, and the local government workers to see how they will navigate the crisis. While the threat of dismissal may pressure workers into compliance, the state government’s stance remains a major obstacle.
For now, Osun residents are left waiting to see whether this crisis will be resolved peacefully or escalate further into a larger political showdown.
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Written By Fortune Davidson