The Nation Newspaper

Tag: Osun Assembly

  • Council funds crisis: Osun Assembly alleges N50b diversion

    Council funds crisis: Osun Assembly alleges N50b diversion

    Osun State House of Assembly yesterday alleged that about N50billion from the local governments’ allocations have been diverted by the reinstated council executives of the All Progressives Congress (APC), ‘’which has exposed grassroots to deterioration and hardship.’

    The assembly through the Speaker, Adewale Egbedun, addressing reporters at the lawmakers’ complex, said the alleged actions of the APC executives had further destabilised governance at the grassroots.

    He said the assembly by the provision of law had oversight and legislative powers over 30 local government areas of Osun State.

    Egbedun said N25million was paid to each of the reinstated chairmen, N12million was paid to vice-chairmen, N10million to 332 councillors, N130million to selected traditional rulers and N13billion to a law firm.

    He alleged that the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola and the United Bank for Africa (UBA) connived to make the diversion easy for the reinstated council executives.

    According to him, ‘’reaffirming the illegality of forceful occupation of council secretariats by tenure-less politicians, the assembly condemns the callousness of the APC cronies and the minister.

    READ ALSO: The men who ruined a republic

    “Not one naira has been paid in the last 12 months as salaries of local government workers by these illegal APC chairmen: primary school teachers – zero ; nurses and other health care workers – zero; local government workers – zero; traditional rulers not favoured by Gboyega Oyetola – zero; retirees – zero.

    “Even more disturbing are reports before this House that plans are allegedly underway to disburse another Fifty Billion Naira of local government funds for political purposes, disguised as project funds, while governance at the grassroots continue to suffer. We will not tolerate the diversion of public funds meant for salaries, health care, education and community development into private hands to fund the election of a particular politician in Osun State.”

    Contacted, the Chairman of Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Osun State chapter, Abiodun Idowu, said the assembly lacked proper knowledge of governance at the grassroots, urging them to seek update from Governor Ademola Adeleke rather than feeding the public with lies.

    “The same assembly has been shouting that Federal Government withheld Osun local government funds. They even said the seizure has stalled governance at the grassroots, only to now say the money has been diverted by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola.

    “The assembly needs to tell the world how a minister will be diverting fund ceased by the Federal Government, how the same fund you claimed its non-release has stalled projects at the grassroots is now being diverted to private pockets. The assembly as an institution needs to do better rather than pushing false narratives,” he said.

  • LG funds crisis: Osun Assembly alleges N50bn diversion, warns APC ‘reinstated’ Excos

    LG funds crisis: Osun Assembly alleges N50bn diversion, warns APC ‘reinstated’ Excos

    …Assembly lacks proper knowledge of governance at the grassroots — Osun ALGON

    The Osun State House of Assembly on Sunday alleged that about N50billion from the local government area allocations has been diverted by the reinstated council executives of the All Progressives Congress (APC), which has exposed the grassroots to deterioration and hardship.

    The Assembly, through the Speaker, Hon Adewale Egbedun, while addressing newsmen at the lawmaker complex, held that the alleged actions of the APC executives have further destabilised governance at the grassroots.

    He reiterated that the Assembly, by the provision of law, has oversight and legislative powers over 30 local government areas of Osun State.

    Egbedun highlighted that N25million was paid to each of the reinstated chairmen, N12 million paid to vice-chairmen, N10 million to 332 councillors, N130 million to selected traditional rulers, and N13billion to a law firm.

    READ ALSO: Okpebholo’s weekend surprise for three workers

    He also alleged that the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, and the United Bank for Africa (UBA) connived to make the diversion easy for the reinstated council executives.

    According to him, reaffirming the illegality of forceful occupation of council secretariats by tenureless politicians, the Assembly condemned the callousness of the APC cronies and the minister.

    “Not one naira has been paid in the last 12 months as salaries of local workers by these illegal APC chairmen: primary school teachers – zero; nurses and other healthcare workers – zero; local government civil servants – zero; traditional rulers not favored by Gboyega Oyetola – zero; retirees – zero.

    “Even more disturbing are reports before this House that plans are allegedly underway to disburse another Fifty Billion Naira (N50B) of LG funds for political purposes, disguised as project funds, while governance at the grassroots continues to suffer. We will not tolerate the diversion of public funds meant for salaries, healthcare, education, and community development into private hands to fund the election of a particular politician in Osun State.”

    “The Assembly formally places on record that it has written repeatedly to banks, including the United Bank for Africa Plc (UBA), that under extant Osun State laws and regulations governing Local Government administration, only career officers duly appointed under the Local Government Service Commission, including directors of finance and directors of administration and general services, are lawful signatories to LG accounts”, clarifying that “politicians elected as, chairmen, councilors, treasurers, or political appointees are forbidden from being signatories to LG accounts.

    “Any bank that releases Local Government funds on the instructions of unauthorised persons, regardless of who issued such instructions, acts unlawfully and exposes itself and its officers to criminal liability. Illegal disbursement of public funds is fraudulent. It is not banking practice. It is not political discretion. It is a crime.

    “The House therefore warns the UBA in very clear terms that all illegal disbursements of Osun State LG funds, whether purportedly authorised by Mr Gboyega Oyetola or any other individual, will be fully recovered and treated as deliberate complicity in a financial crime. All the funds that UBA has disbursed so far, with the alleged illegal instructions of Mr Oyetola, are a gift to him and cannot be deducted from Osun State LG accounts.

    When contacted, the Chairman of the Osun Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Osun chapter, Hon. Abiodun Idowu, disclosed that the Assembly lacks proper knowledge of governance at the grassroots, urging them to seek updates from Governor Ademola Adeleke rather than feeding the public with lies.

    “The same Assembly had been shouting that the Federal Government withheld Osun LG fund, they even said the seizure has stalled governance at the grassroots, only to now say the money has been diverted by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Mr Gboyega Oyetola.

    “The Assembly needs to tell the world how a Minister would be diverting funds seized by the federal government, how the same fund you claimed is non-release has stalled projects at the grassroots, and is not diverted to private pockets. The Assembly as an institution needs to do better rather than pushing false narratives,” he said.

  • Osun Assembly passes N723billion 2026 appropriation bill

    Osun Assembly passes N723billion 2026 appropriation bill

    The Osun State House of Assembly on Wednesday passed the 2026 Appropriation Bill, which totalled ₦723,454,988,670.00. 

    The Nation recalled that Governor Ademola Adeleke in November 2025 submitted proposed N705.794 billion 2026 appropriation bill christened ‘The Buget of Economic Transformation’ before the House. 

    A statement by Olamide Tiamiyu, the Chief Press Secretary to the Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Hon. Adewale Egbedun, confirmed that the budget was passed after detailed consideration by the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation. Contributions from relevant Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) were also taken into account. 

    He stated that lawmakers engaged in extensive debates to ensure that the proposals align with the developmental priorities and socio-economic needs of the people of Osun State.

    He said that the budget is designed to promote sustainable development, enhance infrastructure, improve social services, and strengthen key sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and economic empowerment.

    “The budget also emphasised fiscal responsibility, transparency, and prudent management of public resources.

    “The revenue estimates for the 2026 budget include an opening balance of ₦16,192,300,490.00, recurrent revenue of ₦421,253,229,320.00, and capital receipts of ₦286,009,458,860.00. This brings the total inflow to ₦723,454,988,670.00.

    Read Also: Tambuwal seek US support for Nigeria’s security fight

    “On the expenditure side, the budget allocates ₦135,005,722,430.00 for personnel costs and ₦185,768,933,880.00 for other recurrent expenditures.

    The subtotal for recurrent expenditure is therefore ₦320,774,356,310.00. Capital expenditure has been set at ₦402,680,332,360.00, bringing the total outflow to ₦723,454,988,670.00.”

    He added that following the passage of the budget, the Speaker of the House commended members for their dedication and cooperation throughout the budget process.

    He emphasised that the legislature remains committed to safeguarding the interests of the citizens and reaffirmed the Assembly’s resolve to continue exercising effective oversight to ensure proper implementation of the budget.

    The House also urged the Executive to ensure timely and efficient execution of the approved estimates in accordance with the law, for the overall growth and development of the state.

    The 2026 Appropriation Bill, as passed, will now be transmitted to Governor Senator Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke for assent.

  • JUST IN: Osun Assembly affirms PDP councils’ excos, warns against illegal release of allocation 

    JUST IN: Osun Assembly affirms PDP councils’ excos, warns against illegal release of allocation 

    The Osun State House of Assembly on Thursday affirmed the elected chairmen of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as the legitimate executives in charge of local government councils across the state.

    During plenary, the Assembly described the All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmen as impostors, accusing them of causing hardship at the grassroots through their continued occupation and closure of council offices.

    Read Also: Why Osun Assembly should halt debate onproposed Road Skating Bill, by Basiru

    Lawmakers also cautioned the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) against releasing council allocations to the sacked APC chairmen, pointing out that a court ruling had removed them from office and the state electoral commission had officially withdrawn their Certificates of Return.

    Raising the matter, Hon. Adewumi Adeyemi of Obokun constituency decried the ongoing crisis at the local councils, calling it regrettable. 

    Other lawmakers supported his position, expressing concern over reports that the CBN was allegedly preparing to channel LG allocations into unauthorized accounts accessible to the ousted officials.

    The Majority Leader, Hon. Kofoworola Adewumi, moved a resolution to resist attempts to unseat the PDP chairmen elected on February 22, 2025, which was seconded by Hon. Olujinmi Asagade of Ejigbo.

    The Speaker, Hon. Adewale Egbedun, subsequently passed the resolution, which was unanimously adopted by the House.

    Details shortly…

  • Why Osun Assembly should halt debate onproposed Road Skating Bill, by Basiru

    Why Osun Assembly should halt debate onproposed Road Skating Bill, by Basiru

    A proposed bill by Osun State House of Assembly seeking to penalise public road skating with a six-month jail term or a N250,000 fine has sparked war of words between the assembly and the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru.

    The Nation reports that the bill, sponsored under the leadership of Speaker Adewale Egbedun, has faced public criticism, with Basiru leading opposition against it.

    In a statement issued yesterday, Basiru condemned the proposal, describing it as misplaced and ill-timed.

    He urged the assembly to withdraw the bill, noting that the state was grappling with more urgent challenges.

    “We are disturbed by the proposal of punishment for open skating in Osun State. For us, it is coming at a time skating stars are being discovered in Nigeria,” Basiru said.

    Read Also: Basiru: APC not turning Nigeria into one-party state

    He advised the lawmakers to consult with experts before initiating or debating such legislative actions.

    Responding, the Legislative Assistant to the Speaker, Olugbenga Akanfe, said the bill did not seek to ban skating entirely.

    He said it aimed to regulate public skating, especially on the highways and busy roads, citing safety concerns for skaters and the public.

    “In many parts of the state, it is common to see skaters clinging to moving vehicles, buses, motorcycles, or commercial tricycles (Keke NAPEP). These acts are extremely risky. When vehicles speed up unexpectedly, skaters often lose control, leading to accidents.

    “The increasing rate of such unsafe skating activities on major roads is worrisome. A key reason is the absence of designated skating parks in the state. However, with the ongoing transformation of  Osogbo City Stadium by Governor Ademola Adeleke, there are plans to include a proper skating arena within the facility. This development will provide a safe and structured environment for skating enthusiasts,” Akanfe said.

  • APC’s Basiru, Osun Assembly clash over proposed jail term for public skating

    APC’s Basiru, Osun Assembly clash over proposed jail term for public skating

    A proposed bill by the Osun State House of Assembly seeking to penalise public road skating with a six-month jail term or a N250,000 fine has sparked a war of words between the Assembly and the National Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Ajibola Basiru.

    The Nation reports that the bill, sponsored under the leadership of Speaker Adewale Egbedun, has faced public criticism, with Basiru leading the charge against it.

    In a statement issued on Wednesday, the former senator condemned the proposal, describing it as misplaced and ill-timed.

    He urged the Assembly to withdraw the bill, stressing that the state is grappling with more urgent challenges.

    “We are disturbed by the proposal of punishment for open skating in Osun State. For us, it is coming at a time when skating stars are being discovered in Nigeria,” Basiru said.

    Read Also: Basiru: APC not turning Nigeria into one-party state

    He further advised the lawmakers to consult with experts before initiating or debating such legislative actions.

    In response to the backlash, the Legislative Assistant to the Speaker, Olugbenga Akanfe, clarified that the bill does not seek to ban skating entirely.

    It aims to regulate public skating, especially on highways and busy roads, citing safety concerns for both skaters and the general public.

    “In many parts of the state, it is common to see skaters clinging to moving vehicles, buses, motorcycles, or commercial tricycles (Keke NAPEP). These acts are extremely risky. When vehicles speed up unexpectedly, skaters often lose control, leading to accidents.

    “The increasing rate of such unsafe skating activities on major roads is concerning. A key reason is the absence of designated skating parks in the state. However, with the ongoing transformation of the Osogbo City Stadium by His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke, there are plans to include a proper skating arena within the facility. This development will provide a safe and structured environment for skating enthusiasts.”

  • Osun Assembly passes for second reading bill regulating Islamic, traditional marriages 

    Osun Assembly passes for second reading bill regulating Islamic, traditional marriages 

    The Osun House of Assembly on Tuesday passed for second reading the bill regulating Islamic and traditional marriages.

    Mr Bamidele Lawal, the lawmaker representing Osogbo Constituency, during plenary,  appealed to the state assembly to give the bill accelerated passage.

    Lawal made the appeal after reading the policy thrust of the bill, with the title: “Osun State Islamic and Traditional Marriages Regulation Bill 2024”.

    He said that the bill, if passed into law, would allow for the issuance of marriage certificates for Islamic and traditional marriages, which could be presented to process international documents.

    According to him, if the bill is passed into law, it will provide for a marriage registrar, who shall be responsible to the President of the Customary Court of Appeal.

    He said that the marriage registrar would be responsible for issuance of certificate, issuance of licences for both Islamic and traditional marriages.

    Lawal said that the bill would also provide that the registrar ensured proper documentation of Islamic and traditional organisations in the state.

    Read Also: Osun Assembly confirms members of election appeal tribunal

    “It will generate revenue for the state by the payment of fees for the issuance of certificates, whereby enhancing the internal generated revenue of the state; and ensure easy processing for international documents for foreign trips,” he said.

    The lawmaker said that the certificate issued by the registrar of the Islamic and traditional marriage, as empowered by the bill, would be a valid and accepted document by all authorities in Nigeria and beyond.

    The Speaker, Mr Adewale Egbedun, aligned with the position of the lawmaker and others after listening to their contributions .

    Subsequently, the bill was passed for second reading and the house adjourned sitting to Wednesday, March 19.

    (NAN)

  • Osun Assembly confirms members of election appeal tribunal

    Osun Assembly confirms members of election appeal tribunal

    The Osun House of Assembly on Monday confirmed the three nominees to serve on the ‘Appeal Tribunal’ for the upcoming local government election in the state.

    Those screened and confirmed are: Mr Oluwaseun Ajoba, Mrs Lateefat Agbaje and Mr Tajudeen A. Giwa.

    The members of the tribunal were screened following their formal nomination by the Osun State Chief Judge, Justice Oyebola Ojo.

    Mr Adewale Egbedun, Osun Assembly Speaker, after the confirmation, commended his colleagues for the successful exercise.

    Read Also: Benue govt confirms outbreak of rabies in two councils

    He also congratulated the nominees, urging them to prioritise the interests of the state in their upcoming responsibilities.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Assembly, on Friday, requested that the nominees appear for screening today (Monday), after a letter of their nomination was received from the state Chief Judge.

    The legislative said that the screening exercise was in accordance with the provisions of Section 93 (4) of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (Amendment No. 1) Law, 2024.

    The Osun Local Government Election is scheduled to hold on Feb. 22

    (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

  • Osun Assembly raises 2025 Budget by N37bn, approves N427.7bn 

    Osun Assembly raises 2025 Budget by N37bn, approves N427.7bn 

    The Osun State House of Assembly has increased the 2025 Appropriation Bill by N37 billion, bringing the total budget to N427,746,925,170 following a thorough review by the Committee on Finance and Appropriation. 

    Governor Ademola Adeleke initially presented a N390,028,277,740 budget proposal on 13 November 2024, with allocations of N144.2 billion for capital expenditure and N245.8 billion for recurrent expenditure. 

    A statement from the chief press secretary to the Speaker, Olamide Tiamiyu, confirmed the House’s approval of the revised budget. 

    Read Also: LG Autonomy: Osun Assembly passes amendment bills

    The statement noted that the approval followed the submission of a report by the Chairman of the House Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Hon. Olumide Fatunmise. 

    During the plenary session, Speaker Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun commended the Committee and lawmakers for their diligence in reviewing and passing the budget on time. 

    He highlighted that the 2025 budget focuses on critical sectors, including education, healthcare, infrastructure, tourism, and security, to improve the lives of citizens across the state.  

  • Council autonomy: Osun Assembly moves to amend electoral laws

    Council autonomy: Osun Assembly moves to amend electoral laws

    Osun House of Assembly yesterday  passed for second reading, bills to amend Osun local governments creation and Osun electoral commission laws, to conform to the Supreme Court judgment on local government financial autonomy.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the bills titled: “Osun State Local Government Areas Creation and Administration Amendment (No. 7) Bill, 2024’’ and ‘’Osun Independent Electoral Commission Amendment (No.1) Bill, 2024’’, scaled second reading after their policy thrusts were read.

    Read Also: Osun Assembly passes bill increasing stipends for political office holders, others

    Reading the policy thrust of the Osun Independent Electoral Commission Amendment (No.1) Bill, the Deputy Majority Leader, Adekunle Oladimeji, said the amendment bill was in line with the Nigerian Constitution and Supreme Court judgment.