Adeleke: Osun will reclaim unlawfully seized local government allocations

OSUN State governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, on during the week spoke with journalists on Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary, assessed his government’s performance and addressed concerns surrounding the lingering local government allocation crisis in the state.

On Nigeria at 65

Governor Adeleke described Nigeria’s journey since independence as remarkable, despite several hurdles. According to him, “Nigeria has survived civil war, military rule, economic instability and insecurity. Yet, our national spirit has never been broken. The fact that we remain united at 65 is a testimony to the resilience of our people. Yes, we still face challenges of governance, growth and development, but we must acknowledge that Nigerians are pushing forward in hope and in unity.”

He urged citizens to use the independence anniversary as a moment of sober reflection, stressing that peace, unity and collective sacrifice remain the pillars on which the nation’s progress rests.

On his stewardship after nearly three years in office

Responding to questions about how fulfilled he feels in delivering on his five-point development agenda, the governor said his administration had stayed focused on its promises.

He explained: “I am fulfilled because we set out a clear roadmap, and we have been consistent. Workers’ salaries are no longer an issue; pensioners are smiling again; our schools and hospitals are receiving attention; roads and infrastructure are springing up across Osun. Of course, governance is a continuum, and there is still more to do, but I am proud that our government has restored hope and dignity to governance.”

He further noted that his administration’s people-first approach had redefined the relationship between government and citizens in Osun State.

On the seized local government allocations

When asked about the latest development on the issue of Osun’s local government allocation allegedly withheld by the Federal Government, Senator Adeleke stressed that his administration is vigorously pursuing justice through the legal system.

He said: “The unlawful seizure of Osun’s LG allocation is unacceptable. It is the right of our people, not a favour. We are already pursuing the matter within the law and I assure the people of Osun that we will reclaim what belongs to us. The resources are meant for development at the grassroots and we will not compromise on that.”

On rumours of illegal payments to sacked APC chairmen

The governor was also confronted with questions about rumours suggesting that the sacked APC-backed council chairmen had been paid by a commercial bank despite a subsisting court order.

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In clearing the air, he said: “Let me be very clear, any tampering with Osun’s funds will have consequences. If you touch local government funds, the law will go after you. Our government is law-abiding and we will not engage in illegality. Any kobo not paid through statutory accounts is not known to the law. Those payments are in the realm of rumour. As far as we are concerned, Osun local government funds must be paid into accounts formally opened with signatories as specified by the state finance laws and regulations. The matter is before the court of law.”

On sustaining salaries and projects despite financial setbacks

Asked how his administration continues to pay salaries, pensions and simultaneously deliver on massive infrastructural projects despite the seizure of LG funds, Governor Adeleke pointed to financial discipline as the secret.

He explained: “There is no magic wand. It is about blocking leakages, ensuring transparency and prioritising people’s needs. We operate a government where every kobo is accounted for, where waste is eliminated and where resources are deployed strictly to areas that benefit our people. That is why we can meet our obligations and still pursue ambitious development projects at the same time.”

Senator Adeleke reassured the people of Osun State that his administration remains unwavering in its commitment to service delivery.

He emphasised that transparency, accountability and people-centered policies will continue to define his governance.