A group, under the aegis of National Action Group (NAG), has called on the Osun Governor, Mr Ademola Adeleke, and former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, to prioritise the safety and security of the people of the state above all else, expressing deep concern over the escalating political crisis in the state, leading to decision of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to withdraw its members from local government offices due to safety concerns.
The group, while condemning in the strongest terms the actions of all parties involved that had contributed to this volatile environment, urged both leaders to engage in constructive dialogue, de-escalate tensions, and seek a swift and amicable resolution to the ongoing dispute through legal and constitutional means.
National Chairman of the group, Dr. Olusanya Awosan, who served as Special Adviser (SA), Public Relations to former President Goodluck Jonathan, made the call in a signed statement, copy of which was made available to our correspondent, saying that the NLC’s action was a clear indication that the political climate in Osun State had deteriorated to a point where the safety and security of ordinary citizens were at risk.
Awosan declared pointedly as unacceptable the current situation on ground, noting that the right to a safe working environment was fundamental, and that “the fact that the NLC felt compelled to take such drastic measures speaks volumes about the gravity of the situation.”
According to him, the apparent disregard for the rule of law, the use of inflammatory rhetoric, and the prioritization of political power over the well-being of the people are deeply troubling, saying such had no place in a democratic society.
“The National Action Group (NAG) expresses its deep concern over the escalating political crisis in Osun State, a situation starkly highlighted by the recent decision of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to withdraw its members from local government offices due to safety concerns.
“This development, stemming from the ongoing dispute over local government leadership, paints a worrisome picture of political instability and potential unrest.
The NLC’s action is a clear indication that the political climate in Osun State has deteriorated to a point where the safety and security of ordinary citizens are at risk.
“This is unacceptable. The right to a safe working environment is fundamental, and the fact that the NLC felt compelled to take such drastic measures speaks volumes about the gravity of the situation.
“NAG condemns in the strongest terms the actions of all parties involved that have contributed to this volatile environment. The apparent disregard for the rule of law, the use of inflammatory rhetoric, and the prioritization of political power over the well-being of the people are deeply troubling and have no place in a democratic society,” Awosan said.
“We call on Governor Ademola Adeleke and Mr Adegboyega Oyetola to prioritise the safety and security of the people of Osun above all else.
“We urge both leaders to engage in constructive dialogue, de-escalate tensions, and seek a swift and amicable resolution to the ongoing dispute through legal and constitutional means,” he added.
Besides, the group equally called on the Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) to urgently intervene in this matter and explore all legal avenues to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety and security of the people of Osun State, pointing out that its role as guardians of the rule of law was crucial in this critical moment.
It also charged security agencies in the state to uphold their duty to protect lives and property in Osun State, urging them to remain impartial and act decisively to prevent any outbreak of violence or unrest.
The group, while giving the charge, noted that the situation in the state was a stark reminder of the fragility of peace and the importance of responsible leadership, and, therefore, urged all stakeholders to embrace dialogue, respect the rule of law, and work together to restore peace and stability to Osun State.
“The time for political gamesmanship is over; the well-being of the people must come first.
“The National Action Group stands ready to support all efforts aimed at finding a peaceful and lasting solution to this crisis,” the group said.
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