Local government workers in Osun State have refused to comply with a 72-hour ultimatum issued by APC-backed LG chairmen to return to work amid an ongoing political dispute between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC).
On Monday, APC LG chairmen elected in 2022, accompanied by security personnel, returned to council secretariats, insisting they remain the legitimate officeholders. Meanwhile, PDP chairmen, elected in a recent local government poll conducted by Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration, stayed away as advised by the governor.
The crisis stems from a legal dispute over control of the local governments. While the APC cites a recent Court of Appeal ruling allegedly overturning a high court decision that removed its chairmen, the PDP-led government proceeded with fresh elections, which the APC boycotted. The conflict has already resulted in at least six deaths.
Fearing violence, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) instructed workers to stay away from the secretariats. However, upon their return, the APC chairmen issued an ultimatum, stating that workers must resume within 72 hours, claiming the situation was now under control.
Despite this, NLC Chairman Christopher Arapasopo dismissed the ultimatum, affirming that workers would not return under unsafe conditions. He emphasized that the directive for workers to stay home remains in effect, stressing that their safety is a priority.
The NLC also urged President Bola Tinubu and security agencies to intervene and restore order, reiterating its commitment to protecting workers’ rights.
