The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has strongly criticized the ongoing withdrawal of services by local government workers, citing the adverse impact on governance and daily life in the state. The party’s chieftain, Hon. Kunle Adegoke, has urged the striking workers to reconsider their stance, warning that the prolonged industrial action could cripple essential services and disrupt economic activities at the grassroots level.
Reasons Behind the Strike
The local government workers, under the aegis of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), embarked on the strike to demand improved working conditions, payment of outstanding salaries, and the implementation of the financial autonomy granted to local governments by the constitution. The union insists that the Osun State government has failed to address these critical issues despite repeated negotiations.
A spokesperson for NULGE, Comrade Adekunle Ogunleye, defended the strike action, stating, “We have exhausted all diplomatic means to get the government’s attention. Our members cannot continue to work under these unfavorable conditions, including delayed salaries, lack of promotion, and poor welfare packages.”
APC’s Position and Call for Resolution
Reacting to the strike, Hon. Adegoke expressed concern over the impact of the withdrawal of services on local governance. He lamented that residents in rural communities were being denied access to essential services such as healthcare, waste management, and administrative functions.
“Local government is the closest arm of government to the people. When workers down tools, markets become disorganized, refuse piles up, and basic governance is stalled. We urge the union and the government to engage in meaningful dialogue to resolve these disputes before the suffering of the people escalates,” Adegoke stated.
The APC chieftain also criticized what he described as a lack of proactive engagement by the Osun State government in preventing the strike. He urged Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration to take immediate action to address the workers’ grievances.
Broader Implications of the Local Government Shutdown
The ongoing strike has already begun to affect several sectors, including public health services and revenue collection. Residents in affected communities have expressed frustration over the situation. A trader in Ilesa, Mrs. Folake Adeoti, voiced her concerns: “We rely on local government offices for small business permits and other services. This strike is affecting our ability to operate legally and efficiently.”
Similarly, public health officials warn that prolonged disruptions in waste disposal and sanitation services could lead to public health crises. “Uncollected waste and stagnant water could trigger outbreaks of diseases such as cholera and malaria. The government must act fast,” said Dr. Musa Agboola, a public health expert.
Next Steps: Possible Path to Resolution
In response to the growing tensions, sources within the Osun State government have hinted at ongoing behind-the-scenes negotiations. However, no official resolution has been reached yet.
Political analysts suggest that for a lasting solution, the government must implement a structured framework for local government funding, ensuring that councils have the financial autonomy to manage their workforce effectively.
For now, residents of Osun State continue to bear the brunt of the crisis, with many hoping that an amicable resolution is reached soon to restore normalcy to local governance.
