Labour Movement urges FG to Intervene in Osun LG Allocation Dispute

Osun State Joint Labour Movement under the aegis of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), have called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene in the ongoing local government allocation dispute in the state.

The movement, in a press released on Tuesday jointly signed by Comrade Christopher Arapasopo, Comrade ‘Bimbo Fasasi, and Comrade Lekan Adediran, the labour leaders said local government allocations in Osun had allegedly been paid for over a year into a private account in a commercial bank with what they described as unauthorized signatories.

The unions commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for stabilizing the state and meeting key obligations to workers despite the financial challenges.

According to the statement, workers’ welfare has significantly improved since November 2022, with salaries and entitlements largely paid, resulting in sustained industrial peace.

“Industrial peace now prevails. The absence of strike action in recent years reflects responsible engagement on the part of Labour and responsive governance on the part of the administration.”

While appreciating the state government for intervening from its treasury to meet certain local government obligations, the labour movement described the current arrangement as unsustainable and procedurally flawed.

The release read apart, The Labour Movement in Osun State stands united, resolute, and fully mobilized to defend the rights, welfare, and dignity of all workers across all sectors with special attention to our retirees, who deserve honour, security, timely entitlements, and meaningful, regular healthcare.

“Since November 2022 to date, workers’ aspirations have largely been met. The
suffering previously endured by our members has significantly diminished —
though the painful memories remain with union leaders who bore enormous
pressure and endured misunderstanding, distrust, and hostility during those
difficult times.

“Industrial peace now prevail. Let it be clearly understood: struggle and strike
are not casual undertakings. They are not moments of comfort; they are periods
of intense pressure, sacrifice, and tension for both workers and leaders alike.

“The absence of strike action in recent years reflects responsible engagement on
the part of Labour and responsive governance on the part of the administration.

“We therefore commend the present administration, under the leadership of His
Excellency, Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke, for the efforts made
in stabilizing the state and meeting key obligations to workers and citizens.

“We therefore call on the Federal Government of Nigeria to intervene decisively, in strict compliance with the law, by ensuring that local government funds are
released to duly recognized and properly constituted authorities as provided
for by law.

“Let it be clearly stated: Labour is closely monitoring developments. We have
formally petitioned the appropriate federal authorities because accountability
is not negotiable — it is mandatory. Labour has maintained peace in Osun State.
We have exercised restraint in the face of provocation. We have acted
responsibly to prevent instability and to safeguard democratic order. However,
let no one misinterpret our patience as weakness.

“We strongly advise the management and staff of the concerned bank to strictly
comply with subsisting court orders and established financial regulations.
Financial institutions must remain neutral and professional. They must not
allow themselves to be perceived as partisan actors in matters that are clearly
legal and constitutional in nature.
As workers, customers, and stakeholders — not only in Osun State but across
the federation — we reserve the lawful right to review and reconsider our
banking relationships where necessary. This is not a threat; it is a legitimate
economic right available to all citizens and organized groups.

We will not disclose the full scope of our strategic options at this time. However,
at the appropriate moment, our collective and lawful decisions will be made
public.”