Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has praised the National Union of Local Government Employees for deciding to end an 11-month strike and resume duties on January 5, 2026. He described the move as patriotic and beneficial for grassroots governance. Security measures by police are ensuring a peaceful return to work.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Governor Ademola Adeleke commended the Osun State chapter of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) for their decision to resume local government services after nearly 11 months of industrial action. The strike, which began in early 2025, officially ended the previous Monday, paving the way for workers to return to their posts on January 5, 2026.
Adeleke highlighted the resumption as a 'positive development for grassroots governance' and a sign of the union's responsiveness to public needs. 'The return of local government workers represents a positive development for grassroots governance and highlights the labour movement’s responsiveness to the yearnings and aspirations of the people,' he said through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed.
The governor also expressed support for local government autonomy, emphasizing the need for adherence to the rule of law. 'Our government is not opposed to local government autonomy... What we, however, advocate is that rule of law and due process must never be sacrificed,' the statement noted.
Security arrangements have been a key focus ahead of the resumption. Adeleke thanked the Inspector General of Police, the Assistant Inspector General for Zone 11, and the Osun State Commissioner of Police for deploying personnel to the 30 local government councils, area offices, and local council development areas (LCDAs). NULGE President Dr. Nathaniel Ogungbangbe had requested such measures to prevent intimidation or disruptions.
The Osun State Police Command issued warnings against interference. Deputy Police Public Relations Officer Emmanuel Giwa-Alade stated that non-employees must stay away from council premises, with security directed to act firmly against any disturbances. Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan affirmed the force's commitment to protecting lives and property with vigilance.
Adeleke concluded by stressing the importance of peace for effective governance. 'We welcome the workers’ resumption of duties. We commend the police and other security agencies for keeping our state peaceful,' he added.
