The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • Group lauds Tinubu’s power sector reforms, seeks more funding

    Group lauds Tinubu’s power sector reforms, seeks more funding

    The Network of Advocacy for Positive Impact Initiative (NAPII) has commended the federal government for the significant and visible reforms in the electricity sector under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

    The organisation said the sector is experiencing meaningful transformation for the first time in years.

    Speaking in Abuja on Tuesday, NAPII Executive Director Comrade Williams Bassey acknowledged that the economic reforms introduced by the administration have placed considerable pressure on Nigerians but stressed that the measures were necessary to revive an economy that was in a critical state when President Tinubu assumed office on May 29, 2023.

    He highlighted key interventions such as adjustments to petrol pump prices, the introduction of student loan schemes to ease challenges in the education sector, increased attention to national security, and the upward review of pension payments as steps that have helped stabilise important sectors of the economy.

    According to him, the electricity sector stands out as the area where the administration’s reforms have been most pronounced and impactful.

    Bassey recalled that in the past, the sector consumed hundreds of millions of dollars with little to show for it, despite several probes by the National Assembly.

    “Historically, the power sector was characterized by corruption, inefficiency, and repeated national grid collapses

    “Today, however, we are pleased to note that those challenges are gradually being addressed,” Bassey said.

    He explained that rather than merely criticising, the group conducted independent assessments of the sector, engaging members of the National Assembly, union leaders, and industry administrators, as well as visiting project sites to verify ongoing reforms.

    He said the group inspected five facilities within the Federal Capital Territory and surrounding areas, including the Lugbe, Katampe, Lokogoma, and Kubwa main substations, as well as the Gwagwalada transmission line.

    The visits, Bassey said, revealed extensive upgrades, such as overhauls of transmission lines, construction of new substations, installation of modern transformers, and delivery of critical equipment, including circuit breakers and spare parts.

    “These developments reinforce the hope that national grid collapse will soon be a thing of the past,” he stated, noting that a stable electricity supply is crucial to national development and economic transformation.

    Read Also: Tinubu congratulates Finance Minister Edun on royal honour

    Bassey commended President Tinubu, Minister of Power Adebayo Adelabu, and Managing Director of the Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN), Engr. Sule Ahmed Abdulaziz, for their foresight, professionalism, and effective leadership in the sector.

    He also praised the deployment of digital technologies, particularly the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, describing the transition from analogue to digital operations as a major boost to grid visibility, stability, and efficiency.

    According to him, more than 90 transformers have been installed within the FCT alone, while at least 175 new substations are being added nationwide, contributing to an increase in electricity generation and transmission to about 5,800 megawatts.

    To sustain the momentum, he urged members of the National Assembly to review budgetary allocations for the power sector and ensure the timely release of funds to support ongoing reforms.

    “As we approach 2026, we call on the Minister of Power and the management of TCN to sustain the current pace of reforms in the electricity sector,” Bassey said, specifically praising Engr. Abdulaziz for his role in tackling persistent grid collapse challenges.

  • Buni signs Yobe 2026 budget into law, pledges transparency, fiscal discipline

    Buni signs Yobe 2026 budget into law, pledges transparency, fiscal discipline

    Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has signed the 2026 Appropriation Bill into law, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to accountability, probity, and transparency in public finance management.

    Speaking after assenting to the bill, Governor Buni said his administration would sustain its leading position in fiscal management, as recognised by the SIFTAS World Bank initiative.

    The 2026 budget, titled “Budget of Economic Growth and Infrastructural Transformation,” is valued at N515.532 billion. Of this amount, N291.903 billion, representing 62 per cent, is earmarked for capital projects, while N223.628 billion, or 38 per cent, is allocated to recurrent expenditure.

    The governor commended the Yobe State House of Assembly for the timely passage of the bill, praising lawmakers for their constructive scrutiny and dedication to the welfare of the people.

    He said the budget prioritises key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure and employment, with the aim of improving the quality of life of Yobe residents.

    Read Also: Buni heads APC panel to tackle internal crises ahead 2027 polls

    Sectoral allocations in the budget include N291.903 billion for capital projects focused on infrastructure development, roads, healthcare, and education, while N223.628 billion is set aside for recurrent services covering personnel and overhead costs. Other allocations include the economic sector at 47.7 per cent, social services at 38.9 per cent, administration at 12.4 per cent, and law and justice at 1.1 per cent.

    The Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Chiroma Buba Mashio said the passage of the budget reflected improved cooperation between the executive and legislature for the common good of the state.

    Mashio noted that Governor Buni had invested significantly in the legislature by enhancing members’ capacity through local and international training and projecting the assembly globally as an active member of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.

    He also disclosed that minor adjustments were made to the bill in the overall interest of the state.

    Earlier, Governor Buni also swore in Alhaji Adamu Jibrin as the new Chairman of Yusufari Local Government Council, following the death of the substantive chairman in Egypt. He urged the new chairman to prioritise security and collaborate closely with security agencies and traditional leaders to ensure peace in the area.

  • BREAKING: Ganduje invites Yusuf, as APC warms up to welcome Kano Gov

    BREAKING: Ganduje invites Yusuf, as APC warms up to welcome Kano Gov

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Kano state, under the leadership of the immediate past national chairman, Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has invited Governor Abba Yusuf, urging him to feel free and join the ruling party.

    The state APC chairman, Abdullahi Abbas, disclosed this in a statement in Kano on Tuesday.

    Governor Yusuf’s planned defection to the APC has divided the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), on whose umbrella the governor was elected.

    The NNPP national leader and the governor’s benefactor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, does not want the governor to join the APC.

    Read Also: Sule, Otti, Soludo, Adeleke, Aiyedatiwa, Abiodun, Zulum, Yusuf sign 2026 budgets into Law

    Speaking on behalf of Ganduje, the state APC chairman (Abbas) described Yusuf’s planned defection to APC as a move guided by unity, reconciliation, and in the collective interest of Kano State.

    Abbas stressed that the call for Governor Yusuf to join the APC aims to build a more united and prosperous Kano State.

    “The APC is ready to receive Governor Abba Yusuf with open arms so that, together, we can combine our strengths for the progress of the state,” Abbas said.

    Upon his formal entry, Governor Yusuf and other NNPP stalwarts would be received into the APC under Dr. Ganduje’s leadership, in an atmosphere of mutual respect and collective responsibility, Abbas said.

  • Residents applaud Oborevwori as DSC roundabout flyover opens to vehicular traffic

    Residents applaud Oborevwori as DSC roundabout flyover opens to vehicular traffic

    The opening of the DSC Roundabout flyover in Effurun, Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State, has garnered significant applause from residents, commuters, and local business operators.

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who oversaw the project’s execution, has been commended for enhancing mobility and improving commerce in the area.

    Constructed by the reputable engineering firm Julius Berger, this new infrastructure is being hailed as a transformative addition to urban life in Uvwie and Warri.

    It is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, facilitate smoother transportation, and enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the area.

    This landmark project represents a significant investment in the local infrastructure, promising to boost economic activities and improve the quality of life for residents.

    Overall, the DSC Roundabout flyover stands as a testament to effective governance and forward-thinking urban planning.

    A survey conducted along the project corridor showed that respondents unanimously agreed that the flyovers in DSC Roundabout, PTI Junction, Effurun Roundabout, and Enerhen Junction have brought unprecedented relief to an area long plagued by traffic congestion, deteriorated roads, and economic slowdown.

    Many described the intervention as timely, impactful, and transformative, noting visible improvements in traffic flow, safety, business activities, and environmental outlook.

    Mr. Shuaibu Aduku, a resident of the Nehemiah area who has lived in the neighbourhood for over 19 years, recounted the hardship commuters endured before the construction of the project.

    “Before this work started, the road was in a terrible state. Movement was very difficult, especially during peak hours, and everything was stressful. You could spend hours just trying to cross this point,” Aduku recalled. “But now, with what we are seeing, everything has changed. Transportation is faster, business is faster, and life is generally easier. I give the governor 100 per cent kudos for this project,” he added.

    Another resident, Mr. Abednego Osia, described the former condition of the road as unacceptable for a major urban centre like Effurun.

    He said, “This road was very, very bad before due to traffic congestion, no two ways about it. There is simply no comparison between what it was and what we have now. Since Governor Oborevwori came on board, there has been a big change in Delta State, especially in this environment. The difference is clear for everyone to see. The man is truly doing well.”

    On connectivity and ease of movement, Osia noted that the flyover had significantly reduced traffic bottlenecks and enhanced access to adjoining areas. “From this roundabout down to other parts of the town, movement is now free. The gridlock we used to experience here is gone. This flyover is a very good one, and the governor is really trying for the people,” he said.

    Mrs. Vincent Miracle, a resident who lives close to the flyover, said the project has also positively affected social and religious activities in the area.

    She said, “When I first came here, the traffic was so terrible that I don’t even know how to explain it. But now, the road has beautified our entire environment, including our church. Everywhere looks cleaner and more organised. We pray that God will give the governor more strength, wisdom, and good health to do even more for the people.”

    For Mr. Victor Ayoro, the flyover is a reflection of purposeful leadership and people-focused governance. “First of all, I want to sincerely thank His Excellency, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, for the good work he is doing for Delta State. I will always continue to praise him for his efforts because not many administrations have delivered this level of development. If you look around today, you will see clear roads, better access, and improved safety. These things have really improved our daily lives,” he said.

    Ayoro added that while he might not be able to list all the achievements of the administration, the impact of road infrastructure alone was evident.

    He said: “The improvement on the roads has made movement easier and safer for residents. We can all see the positive changes. My message to the government is to keep doing more good work and also create more jobs for the people. We thank God for the progress so far, and we pray that God continues to bless the governor.”

    An indigene of Uvwie, who gave her name only as Blessing, said the flyover had brought an end to years of hardship for residents and commuters in the area.

    “This flyover will help us a lot. We were suffering before, but now we will begin to enjoy the benefits. Warri, Effurun, and its environs are looking very good. Everywhere is clean, neat, and organised. Honestly, I didn’t know we had such a good governor in Sheriff Oborevwori,” she said.

    She further said: “May God continue to bless our dear governor for all the good things he is doing across Delta State. We pray that he will have more years to achieve even greater things. This place used to be jam-packed with traffic, but Governor Oborevwori has turned things around. We celebrate him as one of the best governors this state has ever had.”

    Read Also: Igbo group appeals to Tinubu, Oborevwori, lawmakers to support Anioma state creation

    For business owners, the impact of the flyover has been even more pronounced. Mr. Akpobofene Akatuba, who has operated a business around the DSC–PTI Junction axis for over 14 years, said the project had revived economic activities in the area.

    Akatuba said, “Calling the old road dilapidated is even an understatement. There was always gridlock, delays, and frustration. But today, this place has changed completely. You can even take pictures here and show people, and they will think you are abroad.”

    According to him, the improved road network has attracted bigger businesses and increased customer patronage.

    “Our business has improved massively. Bigger jobs are coming, more opportunities are opening up, and the overall quality of this place has changed for the better. We say a big thank you to the governor. His good works will continue to speak for him,” he said.

    Overall, residents unanimously commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for prioritising infrastructure development and urged him to sustain the momentum.

    They noted that the DSC Roundabout flyover stands as a clear symbol of people-oriented governance, strategic urban renewal, and the administration’s commitment to easing the daily burden of residents while driving economic growth across Delta State.

  • Tinubu approves appointment of Oyedepo as director of public prosecutions

    Tinubu approves appointment of Oyedepo as director of public prosecutions

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the appointment of Rotimi Iseoluwa Oyedepo as the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) in the Federal Ministry of Justice.

    The appointment, according to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the State House, Abiodun Oladunjoye, follows the transfer of Oyedepo’s service from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to the mainstream Federal Civil Service.

    A letter dated December 23 and signed by Omolabake Mafe on behalf of the Chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission stated that the appointment was made in the public interest.

    Oyedepo will fill the vacancy created by the impending retirement of the outgoing Director of Public Prosecutions, Abubakar Babadoko, who is due to attain the mandatory eight years in office as a director on December 31, 2025.

    The newly appointed DPP is a law graduate of the University of Ilorin, having completed his degree in 2007 and proceeded to the Nigerian Law School in 2008.

    According to the statement, Oyedepo is expected to deploy his extensive prosecutorial experience to reduce the Federal Government’s reliance on external legal counsel in sensitive and high-profile cases, while also ensuring greater coherence and consistency in the government’s legal strategies.

    Read Also: Tinubu congratulates Finance Minister Edun on royal honour

    Before his latest appointment, Oyedepo spent more than 15 years at the EFCC, where he specialised in the prosecution of complex economic and financial crimes.

    He also served as Head of the Commission’s Monitoring Unit and was part of the Federal Government’s legal team in the landmark Process and Industrial Development (P&ID) arbitration case.

    His professional accomplishments earned him the EFCC Outstanding Staff of the Year award in 2014, as well as the Best Financial Crimes Prosecutor award in 2019.

  • New tax laws take off January 1, 2026, Tinubu insists

    New tax laws take off January 1, 2026, Tinubu insists

    …says reforms not designed to raise taxes

    …dismisses controversy over alleged alterations, pledges due process

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday reaffirmed that Nigeria’s new tax laws will commence on January 1, 2026, as scheduled, describing the reforms as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build a fair, competitive, and robust fiscal foundation for the country.

    In a statement personally signed by the President, he said the sweeping tax reforms were aimed not at raising taxes but at resetting Nigeria’s fiscal architecture, harmonising the tax system, and strengthening the social contract between the state and citizens.

    “The new tax laws, including those that took effect on June 26, 2025, and the remaining acts scheduled to commence on January 1, 2026, will continue as planned,” Tinubu said, stressing that the reforms are designed to support long-term competitiveness while protecting dignity and shared responsibility.

    The President urged all stakeholders, state governments, businesses, labour unions, and professional bodies, to rally behind the implementation phase, noting that the reform process has moved decisively from legislation to delivery.

    “The tax laws are not designed to raise taxes, but rather to support a structural reset, drive harmonisation, and protect dignity while strengthening the social contract. I urge all stakeholders to support the implementation phase, which is now firmly in the delivery stage,” he said.

    Tinubu’s clarification follows weeks of public debate and political agitation over claims that some provisions of the newly enacted tax laws were allegedly altered after passage by the National Assembly.

    Critics, including some civil society groups and professional associations, had raised concerns that sections dealing with harmonisation and revenue administration were either amended or inconsistently reflected between versions passed by lawmakers and copies circulated after presidential assent.

    The claims prompted calls in some quarters for a suspension or review of the laws ahead of their full commencement in 2026.

    However, the President dismissed suggestions that the reform process should be halted, insisting that no material issue had been established to justify disrupting a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s tax system.

    “Our administration is aware of the public discourse surrounding alleged changes to some provisions of the recently enacted tax laws. No substantial issue has been established that warrants a disruption of the reform process,” Tinubu said.

    He cautioned against what he described as premature, reactive measures, noting that public confidence in governance is built through consistent adherence to sound decisions over time.

    “Absolute trust is built over time through making the right decisions, not through premature, reactive measures,” the President added.

    Read Also: Tinubu congratulates Finance Minister Edun on royal honour

    Reassuring Nigerians, Tinubu emphasised his administration’s commitment to due process and the integrity of laws duly enacted by the legislature.

    He pledged continued engagement with the National Assembly to address any genuine concerns that may arise during implementation.

    “I emphasise our administration’s unwavering commitment to due process and the integrity of enacted laws. We will work with the National Assembly to ensure the swift resolution of any issue identified,” he said.

    The President further assured that the Federal Government would continue to act in the overriding public interest to deliver a tax system capable of supporting prosperity, fairness, and shared national responsibility.

    “I assure all Nigerians that the Federal Government will continue to act in the overriding public interest to ensure a tax system that supports prosperity and shared responsibility,” Tinubu said.

    The new tax framework, a central pillar of Tinubu’s economic reform agenda, is expected to reshape revenue administration, reduce duplication across tiers of government, and provide a more predictable environment for investment as Nigeria pursues sustainable growth beyond oil revenues.

  • Ekiti Police arrest 3,490 suspects in 2025

    Ekiti Police arrest 3,490 suspects in 2025

    The Ekiti State Police Command has disclosed that it arrested a total of 3,490 suspects for various criminal offences across the state in 2025.

    The Commissioner of Police, Joseph Eribo, made this known during an end-of-year parley with journalists in Ado-Ekiti.

    Eribo said that the arrests were part of the command’s sustained efforts to strengthen security through confidence-building patrols, raids on criminal hideouts, and stop-and-search operations.

    He noted that all the suspects were thoroughly investigated and prosecuted accordingly, stressing that the command’s breakthroughs and achievements contributed to the relative peace and improved safety enjoyed by residents of the state.

    The Commissioner said that crime rates in Ekiti State reduced significantly in 2025 compared to 2024, noting that murder cases dropped from 53 in 2024 to 37 in 2025, kidnapping cases reduced from 17 to 7, while rape cases declined from 41 to 31 within the period.

    He added that cultism cases fell from 12 in 2024 to 7 in 2025, house-breaking reduced from 82 to 65, armed robbery dropped from 18 to 7, defilement cases declined from 26 to 24, while attempted murder cases reduced from 26 in 2024 to 18 in 2025.

    The Commissioner also announced the promotion of some officers from the rank of Superintendent of Police (SP) to Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP). Those promoted include CSP Adeniran Akinwumi, CSP Ofanson Vincent, CSP Ogunleye Kehinde, and CSP Falade Sesan Reuben.

    Highlighting some of the command’s breakthroughs in 2025, Eribo said suspects identified as Adinoi Samuel, also known as Samuel Ebira, Tope Agbaje, and Godwin Anawo were arrested in Ado-Ekiti while allegedly planning attacks on banks in the state capital.

    He revealed that investigations showed Adinoi Samuel was involved in the armed robbery attack on First Bank, Ilasa-Ekiti, in 2012 and Wema Bank, Iyin-Ekiti, in 2020, adding that the suspect was among inmates who escaped during the jailbreak at the Ado-Ekiti Correctional Centre on November 30, 2014.

    Read Also: Ekiti Police recover missing newborn, arrest suspect

    Eribo further disclosed that a suspected kidnapper, Jeremiah Nwagh, was arrested on November 3, 2025, in Itapa-Ekiti, following credible intelligence.

    He said investigations revealed that the suspect acted as an informant to the kidnappers and aided the abduction of two workers at YSJ Farms, Oke-Ako-Ekiti, on October 23, 2025.

    The Police boss assured residents that the command would continue to improve its strategies to stay ahead of criminal elements, expressing optimism that security in 2026 would be better.

    “We shall remain proactive through visibility policing, confidence-building patrols, raids on criminal hideouts, and sustained stop-and-search operations,” he said.

  • Apapa bridge concerns grow as 23 vessels head for Lagos Ports

    Apapa bridge concerns grow as 23 vessels head for Lagos Ports

    Fresh concerns have emerged over the deteriorating condition of the Apapa Bridge and port access roads as 23 vessels carrying petroleum products, food items, and industrial inputs are scheduled to arrive at Lagos ports between December 29 and 31.

    Shipping data released by the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) shows that Apapa and Tin-Can Island ports are bracing for increased maritime activity at the year-end, despite severe strain on road infrastructure within the port corridor.

    According to the NPA’s latest Shipping Position report, the incoming vessels are laden with buckwheat, bulk fertiliser, crude oil, containers, diesel, fuel oil, bulk urea, aviation fuel, and petrol. Three of the vessels have already arrived and are awaiting berthing with consignments of bulk urea, crude oil, and aviation fuel.

    The authority also disclosed that about 20 vessels are currently alongside the ports, discharging cargoes that include general merchandise, bulk sugar, fresh fish, base oil, bulk gas, soya beans, containers, aviation fuel, and petrol. This, it said, underscores sustained cargo throughput at Nigeria’s busiest maritime hub.

    However, the expected rise in cargo evacuation has renewed fears over the structural integrity of Apapa Bridge and adjoining port access roads, which serve as the main evacuation routes for petroleum tankers, container trucks, and other port-bound vehicles.

    Speaking to journalists in Lagos, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation and Logistics, Adekoya Hassan, described Apapa as a critical artery of Nigeria’s economy. He warned that the increasing volume of outbound truck traffic poses a serious risk to the bridge and cautioned that any collapse could cripple port operations and disrupt the national economy.

    “We are concerned about the outbound heavy-duty truck traffic from this terminal. If this road is fixed 10 times, we’ll still have the same result, which is collapse. It is the only exit road from Apapa, Lagos port, and the road here has been under construction for a while,” he said.

    Hassan cautioned that any structural failure would have severe consequences for port operations and the broader economy.

    “If the minister does not pay any attention to this road, perhaps if this road collapses any moment from now, it will have a great effect on the nation’s ports here. So, we are calling on the minister to put the road in order,” he stated.

    Hassan called on the Ministry of Works to prioritise Apapa while acknowledging current federal infrastructure projects across the country.

    “While appreciating the government’s efforts to upgrade infrastructure nationwide, we urge them to prioritise the Apapa ports, a crucial gateway to our economy. The roads are in dire need of repairs and maintenance to ensure efficient operations. We look forward to seeing improvements in this critical area,” he added.

    Read Also:  Fed Govt begins recovery of Apapa Bridge

    The deteriorating road conditions are already taking a toll on port users, particularly truck operators responsible for evacuating cargo from the terminals.

    Chairman of Apapa Truck Cargoes, Saheed Mahmoud, on his part, said the road has become a danger zone for drivers and vehicles.

    “This road is causing damage to our trucks. When coming from Apapa, once you get to this road, accidents occur. Some trucks fall with their cargo here. We are pleading with the Federal Government to help with repairs,” Mahmoud said.

    With dozens of vessels discharging petroleum products and essential commodities at Lagos ports, stakeholders warn that failure to urgently fix the Apapa Bridge and port access roads could worsen congestion, increase accident risks, and undermine the efficiency gains recorded at the ports in recent years.

  • Barau earns PhD, adds academic laurels to legislative career

    Barau earns PhD, adds academic laurels to legislative career

    Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin has added another milestone to his distinguished public service career with the successful completion of a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programme at Maryam Abacha American University, Niger Republic.

    Senator Barau, who also serves as the First Deputy Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, earned the doctorate in Corporate Entrepreneurship after successfully defending his thesis on December 22, 2025.

    His dissertation, titled: “Entrepreneurial orientation and financial performance of SMEs: The moderating role of environment,” examined the dynamics of small and medium-scale enterprises and the influence of environmental factors on their financial outcomes.

    The academic feat has been widely hailed as a testament to the lawmaker’s dedication, discipline and resilience, coming despite the heavy demands of his legislative and international responsibilities.

    Read Also: Barau bags PhD in corporate entrepreneurship

    Observers note that Senator Barau’s achievement underscores his commitment to personal development and intellectual leadership, reinforcing his reputation as a legislator who values knowledge as a tool for effective governance and policy formulation.

    With the new qualification, Senator Barau now bears the title Senator Barau I. Jibrin, CFR, PhD, FCNA, further cementing his standing as one of the most academically accomplished figures in Nigeria’s National Assembly.

    Congratulatory messages have continued to pour in for the Deputy President of the Senate, with admirers describing the achievement as “another feather in his cap” and wishing him continued success in his service to the nation.

  • APC, ALGON fault NULGE over conditions for Osun council workers’ resumption

    APC, ALGON fault NULGE over conditions for Osun council workers’ resumption

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) and a faction of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) have criticised the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) over the conditions attached to the planned resumption of council workers in Osun State on January 5, 2026.

    The Nation reports that NULGE had directed its members to return to work after about 11 months of strike action, which followed the crisis over the control of local government councils claimed by both the APC and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

    The President of NULGE, Kehinde Ogungbangbe, had outlined conditions for resumption, including the provision of security for workers and the prevention of APC executives from occupying council offices. He argued that the tenure of the APC-backed officials had expired and that they lacked the authority to allocate council funds.

    Reacting, the APC, through its Director of Media, Chief Kola Olabisi, accused Ogungbangbe of partisan conduct, alleging that the union embarked on a sympathy strike in support of Governor Ademola Adeleke and abandoned its duties for political reasons.

    Olabisi questioned the authority of NULGE to interpret court judgments, accusing the union of overstepping its mandate and interfering in matters beyond its statutory role. He described the conditions set by the union for resumption as unacceptable and inconsistent with civil service procedures.

    He further alleged that the Osun NULGE leadership had become entangled in political interests, insisting that its actions undermined neutrality expected of public servants.

    Similarly, the ALGON chairman, Hon. Samuel Abiodun, warned that security agencies should hold the NULGE chairman responsible for any breach of peace or breakdown of law and order during the resumption of workers at the councils.

    Read Also: After 11 months strike, Osun NULGE resumes Jan. 5

    He warned, “The monetary-induced NULGE executives to desist from any act capable of undermining the peace, unity and tranquillity that the people of the grassroots have been enjoying since the reinstatement of the Council Chairmen and Councillors.”

    “We are aware of the shenanigans being orchestrated by the embattled NULGE President since our reinstatement, as he has shown clearly to the whole world his unchecked partisanship and bias. As we reaffirm our commitment to peace, unity, harmony, cohesion, and stability across the councils, we want to put our security agencies on alert in case there’s a breakdown of law and order.”