Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has accused the Federal Government of unfair treatment toward his state despite their regional and political connections.
Speaking during the South-West Stakeholders’ Dialogue held in Akure, Ondo State, with the theme “Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future,” Adeleke alleged that the Tinubu-led administration has continued to withhold local government funds legally belonging to Osun State in defiance of a subsisting court order.
Represented by his deputy, Mr. Kola Adewusi, the governor lamented that federal power has been politicised, eroding democratic principles and threatening peaceful intergovernmental relations.
“A troubling dimension was introduced earlier this year when the rule of law was replaced with the rule of the thumb,” Adeleke said. “Federal power is being applied outside constitutional regulation. In Osun, security agencies now protect party operatives even when they act against the law, and some boast openly about hijacking the state whether or not the people voted for them.”
He further alleged that federal authorities seized Osun’s local government funds without due process, while lawfully elected officials were prevented from assuming office.
“Those sacked by a subsisting court order were forcefully reinstated with federal backing and security protection,” he added, describing the situation as a violation of democratic norms.
Adeleke criticised what he described as “partisan discrimination” in federal dealings with Osun, noting that the administration of President Tinubu — a Yoruba leader — has not extended fair collaboration to the state.
“Our olive branch to enhance collaboration is clouded by political partisanship promoted by operatives of the ruling party at the centre,” he said. “Partisan consideration has become the yardstick for federal interactions with Osun, and this threatens intergovernmental harmony.”
The governor called for stronger cooperation among South-West states, stressing that the region must rise above political divides to focus on collective growth and development.
He also commended the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission for its continued efforts in strengthening regional unity.
“The South-West must elevate power application beyond partisanship,” Adeleke noted. “We must prioritise regional development and partner with the Federal Government to execute projects such as a circular cargo railway that will connect the region and boost economic activity.”
— Hobnob News
