…..Slams FG Over Withheld Allocations
The Osun State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress has thrown its weight behind members of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE).
The Congress urging the employees to remain resolute in defending their rights amid the financial crisis rocking local governments in the state.
In a statement issued by the state chairman, Comrade Christopher Arapasopo, the NLC commended NULGE members for their resilience and loyalty during the directive to withdraw services a few months ago, following what it described as political upheaval in local government councils.
The Congress noted that the industrial action was in line with international labour standards, particularly the International Labour Organisation’s (ILO) Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, which guarantee a safe and healthy working environment.
“The Congress salutes your doggedness over this period and encourages you not to be weary as we navigate through these turbulent waves together,” the statement read in part.
The NLC, however, warned workers to ignore what it called “political shenanigans and dishonest propaganda” circulating on social media, alleging that such campaigns were designed to discredit organised labour in Osun State.
On the financial challenges facing councils, the Congress commended Governor Ademola Adeleke for his commitment to workers’ welfare, especially the continued payment of local government workers’ salaries despite the withholding of statutory allocations.
The union accused the Attorney-General of the Federation, the Minister of Finance, and the Central Bank of Nigeria of deliberately holding back Osun’s local government funds, describing the act as unconstitutional and a sabotage of grassroots governance.
“The partisan interference of playing political gymnastics with citizens’ lives and future should be stopped as it undermines the legitimacy of local government leadership,” the statement added.
The NLC vowed not to be intimidated in its push for justice, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law in Osun State.
“We remain unbowed, unshaken, and unbroken,” Arapasopo declared.
