Civil society organisations (CSOs) in Ogun State have voiced strong opposition to the multiple levies, overlapping regulatory requirements, and duplication of registration processes imposed by federal and state agencies in the state. The groups are calling on the government to harmonise all regulations affecting their operations and eliminate policies that commercialise their activities.
CSOs Demand Regulatory Harmonisation
During a media briefing on Civil Society Self-Regulatory Compliance held yesterday in Abeokuta, the self-regulatory Community of Practice (CoP) expressed displeasure with the current situation. Akinpelu Akintayo, a member of CoP, emphasised that CSOs play a crucial role in representing citizens' interests, monitoring public service delivery, advocating for vulnerable populations, and supporting government efforts to achieve sustainable development outcomes.
Akintayo urged the Ogun State Government to engage in dialogue with CSOs on matters affecting the civic space and non-profit sector. He stressed the need for collaboration rather than policies that commercialise their operations.
Aide Hails Governor's Peace Initiatives
Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the Ogun State Governor on Media and Strategy, Kayode Akinmade, has attributed the enduring peace and stability across the state to the deliberate policies and strategic interventions of Governor Dapo Abiodun. Akinmade made this known yesterday while speaking with journalists in Abeokuta on the achievements of the Abiodun administration over the past seven years.
According to Akinmade, peace remains one of the administration's most significant accomplishments. He noted that the governor's commitment to maintaining a peaceful and secure environment has laid the foundation for unprecedented socio-economic growth and infrastructural development across the state.
Economic Growth Attributed to Peace
Akinmade explained that the state's peaceful atmosphere has continued to attract local and foreign investors, leading to the establishment of new industries and the expansion of existing businesses. These developments have translated into job creation and significant economic growth. He revealed that Ogun State's economy has grown remarkably from about N3 trillion to N17 trillion under Governor Abiodun's leadership, positioning the state among the fastest-growing economies in Nigeria.
The contrasting views highlight the tension between the government's narrative of progress and the concerns of civil society actors who feel burdened by regulatory challenges.
