Political tensions in Nigeria’s Osun State have reached a boiling point, with a coalition of civil society organizations, The Osun Masterminds (TOM), expressing deep concern over the ongoing impasse crippling local government administration. According to TOM Executive Director, Prof Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, the continued inactivity in local governments not only hampers development but also paints the state in a bad light among its peers.
The crisis stems from a dispute between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the outcome of the February 2025 local government election. The APC claimed a judgment from the Akure Division of the Appeal Court favored their candidates, while the PDP and the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) disputed this claim. The situation escalated into violent protests, resulting in the death of an APC chieftain, Remi Abass.
Prof Oyedokun-Alli emphasized that the local governments’ dysfunction has severe consequences for the people, as this arm of government is responsible for bringing development close to the community. He urged all parties to put aside their differences and work towards a resolution, stressing that the ongoing impasse not only affects the state’s finances but also its reputation among other states.
Furthermore, Oyedokun-Alli called on local government workers to resume their duties, stating that it is irresponsible for them to stay away from work while collecting salaries. He acknowledged that the state government has fulfilled its obligations by paying workers’ salaries but emphasized that it is essential for workers to carry out their lawful duties.
The situation in Osun State remains volatile, with the state governor, Ademola Adeleke, directing newly sworn-in local government council officials not to resume work to avoid further violence. As the crisis continues, TOM and other civil society organizations are pushing for a swift resolution to restore functionality to local governments and ensure the well-being of the people. The ongoing impasse has significant implications for the state’s development and finances, highlighting the need for political parties to put aside their differences and work towards the greater good.
