A cloud of apprehension hangs over Osun State as local government employees finally return to their offices today, Monday, January 5, 2026. This follows a protracted 11-month industrial action that was marred by political violence, a leadership tussle, and a tragic human cost.
A Strike Born from Bloodshed and Political Rivalry
The roots of the prolonged strike trace back to a day of violence on February 17, 2025. On that fateful day, former Irewole Local Council Chairman, Remi Abass, was killed. He died in a violent confrontation at the council secretariat in Ikire while trying to enforce a court order for his reinstatement. The clash involved supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In response, Governor Ademola Adeleke immediately called on residents and politicians to steer clear of all local council secretariats. He mandated that only security personnel should manage the facilities to prevent further bloodshed. Despite this, APC-appointed chairmen later resumed control of the councils, setting the stage for a prolonged standoff with the workers' union.
The Call to Return and a Stark Revelation
The state chairman of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Dr. Nathaniel Ogungbangbe, recently directed staff to resume work. He cited improved security arrangements and noted that the tenure of the APC chairmen had officially expired in October 2025. Ogungbangbe strongly condemned the continued occupation of the council facilities, labeling it illegal and a violation of the constitution.
However, a rival faction known as the Association of Concerned Local Government Workers has presented a devastating counter-narrative. Led by Adekunle Adedayo, the group revealed that 20 staff members lost their lives during the 11-month strike period. They attributed the deaths to illness and a lack of social interaction stemming from the work stoppage.
Adedayo, speaking jointly with the secretary Akin Adepoju, accused the NULGE leadership under Ogungbangbe of orchestrating a politically motivated strike. He claimed his faction had continued working peacefully with the APC-led council executives and had received their salaries promptly.
Official Reactions and the Path Forward
Governor Adeleke has welcomed the resumption of work, expressing optimism that it will kickstart service delivery at the grassroots level. He praised the police for ensuring safety and stressed the need for a harmonious environment for democracy to thrive.
The Osun State APC has also commended the police for their role in maintaining order. Kola Olabisi, the party's Director of Media and Information, thanked the security forces for preserving peace since the court reinstated the APC leadership in the councils.
As workers trickle back to their desks, the atmosphere remains tense. The state government and security agencies face the critical task of navigating the complex political divisions and ensuring that the resumption translates into tangible benefits for the people of Osun, without further loss of life or property.
