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From Lateef Dada, Osogbo
Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned the striking Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) led by Dr. Kehinde Nathaniel Ogungbangbe, for allegedly engaging in partisan politics and acting as an extension of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration.
Dr. Ogungbangbe had recently announced a directive for local government staff to resume work on January 5, following a ten-month strike.
The APC’s Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, in a response yesterday, accused NULGE’s leadership of overstepping its authority, claiming it is beyond their remit to dictate terms regarding council executives.
The APC questioned NULGE’s perceived role in interpreting court judgments, calling it a “grossly partisan” approach that undermines the union’s integrity. They expressed concern over NULGE being perceived as a tool for the governor and his associates, particularly regarding the resolution of their prolonged absence from their workplaces.
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The statement raised several points, questioning Ogungbangbe’s awareness of ongoing legal proceedings related to the tenure of APC-reinstated chairmen and councilors, which remain pending at the Federal High Court in Osogbo. The party highlighted the absurdity of public servants dictating conditions of engagement to their employers, indicating that such behavior is against civil service protocols.
“They are attempting to create chaos and instability that could disrupt the peace currently enjoyed in local government areas under the APC leadership,” the statement asserted.
The APC reminded Ogungbangbe that the lawsuit initiated by NULGE to remove APC chairmen and councilors is still before the court, urging him to allow the legal system to function without interference.
They alerted security agencies, including the Police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), to remain vigilant against any potential disruptions to public peace associated with NULGE’s planned activities.
They encouraged these operatives to protect returning NULGE staff who genuinely wish to resume duties without being subjected to illegitimate conditions.
