Chairmen elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress in the 15 October 2022 Osun Local Government election returned to their council secretariats on Monday amidst tight security.
Our correspondent, who visited the Ifelodun Local Government headquarters in Ikirun, the Olorunda Local Government Area in Igbona, and the Osogbo Local Government Area secretariat in Oke-Baale, observed that council officials had resumed their duties.
A heavy security presence was also noted across major roads in the state, with armed police operatives and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps officers mounting roadblocks at the entrances to the secretariats.
Security checkpoints were observed along the Osogbo/Kwara boundary road, Osogbo/Ilesa road, and Osogbo/Ibokun road. However, business activities continued uninterrupted across the state capital.
Reviewing the situation in an interview with PUNCH Online, Jamiu Olawumi, a former Special Adviser on Education to ex-Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, stated that the chairmen and councillors had resumed work in all 30 local government areas.
Olawumi added that the chairmen had issued directives for local government staff to return to work by Wednesday.
“All chairmen and councillors have resumed in all local governments and area councils in Osun State, including Irewole Local Government.
The local governments and local council development areas are active and vibrant.
“Security is very tight, with responsible police officers, DSS, and Civil Defence personnel carrying out their duties as instructed by the Inspector General of Police.
“Most of the chairmen have issued press releases this morning instructing their workers to resume by Wednesday at the latest. After Wednesday, if they fail to return, their employment status will be determined. The ultimatum stands at 72 hours,” he said.
Governor Ademola Adeleke, during a swearing-in ceremony on Sunday, had directed chairmen and councillors elected in the Saturday local government elections not to resume at their council offices yet.
Before the election, the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress had also instructed workers in all LGAs to stay home due to the ongoing dispute between Adeleke and the APC in the state.
Meanwhile, our correspondent reached out to the state APC chairman, Kola Olabisi, who promised to respond as soon as possible.
THE PUNCH
