ADELEKE DEMANDS RELEASE OF ₦130BN LG FUNDS, WARNS OF GRASSROOTS CRISIS IN OSUN
By: Safiya Abdulrahim Dabban
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has called for the immediate release of over ₦130 billion in statutory allocations allegedly withheld from the state’s local governments, warning that the situation poses a serious threat to grassroots governance and public welfare.
In a statewide broadcast, the governor condemned the continued occupation of local government secretariats by court-sacked APC chairmen and councillors, describing the action as illegal and a direct challenge to the rule of law. He noted that the occupation has persisted despite court judgments that nullified the elections which produced the officials.
Governor Adeleke alleged that the situation has disrupted local administration and created fear, with workers reportedly harassed and prevented from resuming duty. He said the withheld funds are vital for salaries and essential services, stressing that the state government has been bearing the burden for months, a move he described as unsustainable.
The governor appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure the release of the funds, insisting that such action is necessary to protect democracy and restore stability at the local government level. He also urged residents to remain peaceful while assuring them of his commitment to constitutional order and the welfare of the people.