Local government services across Osun State are poised to restart on Monday, 5 January 2026, bringing an end to an industrial action that paralyzed grassroots administration for nearly eleven months. The resumption follows a decision by the state chapter of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) to call off its protracted strike.
Governor Adeleke Hails Patriotic Decision by Workers
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has praised the leadership of NULGE for their choice to return to work, describing the move as both patriotic and oriented towards the people's welfare. In a communiqué issued on Saturday and signed by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor stated that the workers' return marks a positive development for governance at the local level.
He expressed optimism that this resumption will signal a fresh beginning for activated public services and social delivery directly to residents. Adeleke emphasized that local governance remains the most effective channel for reaching the populace and acknowledged that the labour leaders have demonstrated confidence in responsible leadership.
Security Assurances and Warnings Against Disruption
A critical aspect of the return to work has been the provision of security. Governor Adeleke extended commendations to the police authorities for ensuring safety at all council secretariats ahead of the Monday resumption. He specifically thanked the Inspector General of Police, the Assistant Inspector General for Zone 11, and the Osun State Commissioner of Police for their commitment.
"The police command has acted responsibly to prevent anarchy and violence being plotted by some elements," the governor's statement read. "The prompt action of the police has nipped in the bud any untoward happening across our secretariats." He urged the police to follow through on its directives against any plots to disrupt the workers' lawful return.
This aligns with earlier warnings from the Osun State Police Command. The Deputy Police Public Relations Officer, Emmanuel Giwa-Alade, had stated that non-employees must stay away from local government secretariats and that security personnel were directed to deal firmly with anyone attempting to cause unrest. The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, reassured residents of the police's unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property.
Clarifying Stance on Local Government Autonomy
Transitioning to broader issues, Governor Adeleke used the opportunity to address the ongoing national conversation about local government autonomy. He clarified that his administration is not opposed to autonomy, noting that the presidential decision on the matter has good intentions for devolving governance.
"What we, however, advocate is that rule of law and due process must never be sacrificed on the altar of political shenanigans," the statement elaborated. The governor stressed that the constitution and relevant laws must be followed in all financial, administrative, and other matters concerning local governments. He also insisted that rightfully elected local government leadership must not be denied their legitimate rights to exercise their mandate.
Concluding his remarks, Adeleke welcomed the workers back and underscored the essential role of peace and unity. "Only under harmonious conditions can the dividends of democracy be sufficiently delivered. We need peace, unity and adherence to democratic principles," he said.
The strike, which ended last Monday, was one of the longest in the state's recent history. The President of NULGE in Osun, Dr. Nathaniel Ogungbangbe, had previously outlined specific security requests for the resumption, including adequate police deployment to all 30 local government councils, area offices, and LCDAs to prevent intimidation, harassment, or illegal occupation by unauthorized persons.
