NLC, NULGE Defy APC’s Ultimatum For Workers Resumption

Tensions continue to mount in Osun State as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) have firmly rejected a 72-hour ultimatum issued by All Progressives Congress (APC) local government chairmen. The ultimatum had called for workers to return to their offices at local government secretariats across the state, but both unions have remained resolute in their stance not to comply with the directive.

The APC-led local government administration, which recently regained control of the councils, issued the order, claiming that normalcy had been restored. However, the NLC and NULGE have dismissed the request, citing ongoing political instability and insecurity within the region. Osun NLC Chairman, Christopher Arapasopo, has made it clear that workers will not be intimidated into resuming duties in such a volatile political environment.

As tensions escalate, the NLC and NULGE had earlier advised local government employees to stay away from their workplaces. The unions feared that the political unrest in Osun could potentially lead to violent clashes between rival factions. In response to the growing crisis, security forces, including personnel from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), have been stationed at key locations across the state in an effort to restore order.

APC chieftain Jamiu Olawumi, a former Special Adviser on Education under ex-Governor Adegboyega Oyetola, confirmed that the party’s chairmen and councillors had resumed work at all 30 local government secretariats and area councils in Osun. Olawumi emphasized that the APC had regained control over the councils, stating, “All chairmen and councillors have resumed in all local governments and area councils in Osun State, including Irewole LG. The secretariats and local council development areas (LCDAs) are bustling with activity.”

The APC chieftain further warned that local government workers must resume their duties by Wednesday, or face disciplinary actions, including possible termination of employment. “After Wednesday, if they don’t resume, their jobs will be at stake. It’s a 72-hour ultimatum,” Olawumi asserted, underscoring the urgency of the situation and the consequences of defiance.

Despite this pressure, NLC Chairman Christopher Arapasopo responded by reiterating the union’s position. On Monday, Arapasopo issued a statement reaffirming that workers would not return to work under duress. He condemned the ultimatum, stressing that it would not intimidate the workers or force them to put their safety at risk.

Arapasopo elaborated on the unions’ rationale for the ongoing strike, explaining, “We directed our members to withdraw their services last week Monday, 27th February 2025, due to the political uproar bringing agitations and fear among our members working within the local government across Osun State.” His statement highlighted the fear and uncertainty that workers are facing, and the unions’ commitment to protecting their members in an unstable environment.