Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has praised the Osun chapter of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) for their decision to resume work on Monday, January 5, describing the move as “patriotic and people-oriented.”
In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor said the workers’ commitment to return marks a positive development for grassroots governance and highlights the labour movement’s sensitivity to the needs and aspirations of the people.
Governor Adeleke expressed optimism that the resumption will usher in a fresh start for activated services and social deliveries at the local level, noting that local government is the most effective channel to reach residents.
He commended labour leaders for demonstrating faith in responsible leadership.
The governor also praised the police for ensuring security at council secretariats ahead of the resumption.
“As much as I commend the NULGE leadership, I must also appreciate the Inspector General of Police, the Assistant Inspector General for Zone 11, and the Osun State Commissioner of Police for providing security cover for the lawful resumption of activities at the council secretariats,” Adeleke said.
“The police have acted responsibly to prevent anarchy and potential violence. Their prompt intervention has nipped in the bud any untoward happenings. We trust the command will continue to enforce directives against any attempts to disrupt the workers’ lawful return to duty.”
On the broader issue of local government autonomy, the governor reiterated the importance of rule of law and due process.
“Our government is not opposed to local government autonomy. The presidential decision on local autonomy seeks to devolve good governance to the grassroots, and we support it. However, rule of law and due process must never be sacrificed on the altar of political maneuvering. The constitution and local government laws must be respected in financial, administrative, and other matters. The legitimately elected local government leadership must not be denied their mandate. This has always been our position,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Adeleke welcomed the return of workers and stressed that peace, unity, and adherence to democratic principles are essential for delivering the dividends of democracy.
“We welcome the workers’ resumption of duties and commend the police and security agencies for keeping the state peaceful. Only under harmonious conditions can the dividends of democracy be fully delivered,” he said.
Earlier on Friday, the Osun State Police Command had warned that credible intelligence indicated that some unscrupulous elements were planning to disrupt the resumption of duties by local government employees.
The command assured that any such plans would be met with decisive action to maintain law and order.
