Chairmen elected under the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the October 15, 2022, Osun Local Government elections returned to their council secretariats on Monday under heavy security.
A visit by our correspondent to the headquarters of Ifelodun Local Government in Ikirun, Olorunda Local Government in Igbona, and Osogbo Local Government in Oke-Baale revealed that council officials had resumed their duties.
Security was heightened across key roads in the state, with armed personnel from the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) setting up roadblocks at the entrances of the secretariats. Security checkpoints were also noticed along the Osogbo-Kwara boundary road, Osogbo-Ilesa road, and Osogbo-Ibokun road. Despite this, business activities in the state capital proceeded without interruption.
Speaking in an interview with PUNCH Online, Jamiu Olawumi, a former Special Adviser on Education to ex-Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, confirmed that the chairmen and councillors had resumed duties across all 30 local government areas.
Olawumi further stated that the chairmen had instructed local government staff to return to work by Wednesday.
“All chairmen and councillors have resumed in all local governments and area councils in Osun State, including Irewole Local Government.
“The local governments and local council development areas are active and vibrant.
“Security is very tight, with responsible police officers, DSS, and Civil Defence personnel carrying out their duties as instructed by the Inspector General of Police.
“Most of the chairmen have issued press releases this morning instructing their workers to resume by Wednesday at the latest. After Wednesday, if they fail to return, their employment status will be determined. The ultimatum stands at 72 hours,” he said.
Governor Ademola Adeleke, during a swearing-in ceremony on Sunday, had instructed the elected chairmen and councillors not to resume at their offices for now.
Before the election, the Osun State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress had also directed workers in all local government areas to remain at home due to the ongoing dispute between Governor Adeleke and the APC in the state.
Meanwhile, our correspondent contacted the state APC chairman, Kola Olabisi, who stated that he would respond in due course.
