Labour movement urges FG to intervene in Osun LG allocation dispute
By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –
The Osun State Joint Labour Movement, under the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), has called on the Federal Government to urgently intervene in the ongoing local government allocation dispute in the state.
In a press statement jointly signed by Comrade Christopher Arapasopo, Comrade Bimbo Fasasi, and Comrade Lekan Adediran on Tuesday, the movement said local government allocations 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 financial challenges, noting that workers’ welfare has significantly improved since November 2022, with salaries and entitlements largely paid, resulting in sustained industrial peace.
While appreciating the state government for using its treasury to meet certain local government obligations, the labour movement described the current arrangement as unsustainable and procedurally flawed.
“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,” the release stated.
“Since November 2022, 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,” it added.
The statement continued, “Industrial peace now prevails. Let it be clearly understood: struggle and strike are not casual undertakings. 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.”
The unions concluded by calling on the Federal Government to intervene decisively, in strict compliance with the law, to ensure that local government funds are released to duly recognized and properly constituted authorities as provided by law.
