A coalition of civil society organizations, The Osun Masterminds, has raised the alarm over the prolonged crisis in local government administration in Osun State, warning that the dysfunction is not only stalling grassroots development but also threatening the financial stability of the state.
This was stated in the monthly address delivered in Osogbo on Saturday, the group decried the persistent political gridlock between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), which it says has rendered local governments across the state inactive.
Professor Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, Executive Director of The Osun Masterminds said “The Local Governments take development close to the people, and where this critical arm of government becomes dysfunctional, the people suffer direct consequences,”
The group condemned what it described as “irresponsible behaviour across board and political parties” and urged stakeholders to set aside political supremacy and resolve the crisis for the good of the people. It also criticized local government workers who continue to receive salaries while refusing to work, citing insecurity.
“Earning salaries without corresponding work done is utterly irresponsible. We expect local government workers to resume at their duty posts,” Oyedokun-Alli stated.
He further expressed concern that the state government’s political inaction on the matter could cripple Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), a vital source of income for the state.
Consequently, The Osun Masterminds also lamented the deteriorating state of healthcare services in the state, particularly at the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital. According to the group, the hospital lacks essential manpower and has been operating without regular electricity, forcing medical staff to use torchlights during procedures.
“How can a tertiary institution rely on skeletal generator use while doctors attend to patients in darkness?” the group queried, demanding urgent intervention and recruitment of healthcare personnel.
The group also joined growing public outcry over substandard roads and infrastructure projects. While commending the state government for acknowledging the lapses, The Osun Masterminds called for stricter oversight of contractors and encouraged citizens to demand better quality in public works.
The group welcomed the announcement of the 2026 election date by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) but warned political parties not to sacrifice governance on the altar of electioneering. It urged security agencies to be vigilant and prevent political and religious extremism from infiltrating the state.
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