Nigerian Governor Demands Release of Withheld Local Government Funds
Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has called on the Federal Government to release the state’s withheld local government allocations, emphasizing that there is no legal or constitutional basis for the continued withholding of these funds.
In a statement released by his spokesman, Olawale Rasheed, Adeleke commended the Osun State Council of Obas, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and other individuals who have intervened in the matter. The governor praised the NBA for setting up a committee to investigate the issue and for issuing a report that confirms the illegality of withholding the funds.
According to Adeleke, the NBA report revealed that the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairmen were sacked by a court of law in 2022, contrary to allegations that he was responsible for their removal. The report also noted that the subsequent election held on February 22, 2025, to fill the vacant positions was conducted in compliance with a court order.
Adeleke expressed gratitude to the NBA for its courage in releasing the report and for affirming that his administration has acted within the confines of the law and the constitution. He also thanked several prominent individuals, including royal fathers and lawyers, for their support in the matter.
The governor reiterated his call on the Federal Government to release the withheld allocations, emphasizing that the ruling party’s elected chairmen and councillors are the rightful occupants of the Osun local government leadership. He stated that his administration would continue to deploy due process and the rule of law in its struggle for justice.
The Osun State government has been embroiled in a dispute with the Federal Government over the withholding of local government allocations, which has had significant implications for the state’s finances and development projects. The NBA’s intervention and report have added momentum to the state’s demands for the release of the funds.
By releasing the report, the NBA has underscored the importance of upholding the rule of law and respecting the autonomy of state governments. The development is also a significant boost to Adeleke’s administration, which has faced criticism and opposition from the APC.
As the dispute continues, observers are watching with interest to see how the Federal Government responds to the growing pressure to release the withheld allocations. The outcome is likely to have significant implications for the state’s finances, development, and politics.
