Heavy security as local government staffers resume in Osun

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo

There was a significant security presence at local government offices in Osun State as staff resumed work following an 11-month strike. At Olorunda Local Government on Monday, security operatives were stationed heavily, with the main gate locked and staff allowed entry through a smaller gate.

As of 8:30 AM, approximately 40 staff members had resumed work, engaging in friendly exchanges while contacting their colleagues to reassure them of a peaceful return to work. Corps members assigned to the council were also seen stationed at the entrance.

Kunle AbdulMojeed, the Chairman of Olorunda Local Government, welcomed returning staff and encouraged those still at home to join in advancing the state. He expressed, “I feel very happy that we have our NULGE people around today. We have been begging, asking them in a friendly manner; we are all from this state and working for its progress. I’m sure Osun State will move forward.”

Acknowledging the challenges faced over the past eleven months, he stated, “We have been backward. I am happy there is no fight and no rancor. I urge them to cooperate with us so we can move Osun State, particularly Olorunda, forward.”

Similarly, Hon. Latona Rasak, Vice Chairman in Osogbo Local Government, commended the peaceful resumption and urged staff to expedite work in the interest of the public. He noted that, under the leadership of Honorable Saheed Onibonokuta, there would be impressive developments ahead.

Dr. Nathaniel Ogungbangbe, the state chairman of NULGE, expressed his happiness at the full resumption of his members across local governments, reiterating that there is currently no political head in the council. “We advised that local government workers should resume their duties without politicians present to avoid unnecessary crises,” he stated.

However, Ogungbangbe raised concerns about the police’s contradictory actions, as he observed that they were allowing politicians into the local government offices despite earlier press releases discouraging such actions.

“If PDP politicians had come to the local government today, there could have been a clash, which is what we have been trying to avoid since February,” he said. He urged his members to remain calm and law-abiding, even in the face of potential provocation.

Ogungbangbe appealed for peace, emphasizing that while they are eager to resume their duties, the political situation must remain stable to prevent further conflict in Osun State.