In a strongly worded press release issued today, Hon. Oke condemned the union’s action as a troubling departure from its constitutional mandate and a disservice to the people of Osun State.
According to Hon. Oke, the union’s prolonged industrial action appears politically motivated, with NULGE allegedly aligning itself with the state government’s political interests at the expense of its core responsibility of delivering critical grassroots services.
MP Wole Oke described this development as “not only unfortunate but also dangerous for our democracy, our institutions, and the ordinary citizens who rely on local government services for daily sustenance.”
Highlighting the union’s statutory role, Hon. Oke emphasised that NULGE must “remain non-partisan and focused on public service,” cautioning that the current behaviour risks violating public service regulations as well as the Trade Unions Act, which mandates political neutrality in the public sector.
He also pointed out the irony of a union traditionally known for championing local government autonomy now purportedly acting in subservience to state political interests, thus undermining its credibility.
In his appeal, Hon. Oke urged the National Secretariat of NULGE to intervene swiftly to restore neutrality and order within the Osun chapter. He also reminded local government employees of their primary duty “to serve the people, not to engage in political brinkmanship.” With essential services like sanitation, healthcare, and education disrupted amid the ongoing sit-at-home, the call from Hon. Oke underscores a growing public frustration and the pressing need for the union to refocus on its foundational goals for the benefit of the people it serves.
As these outcries become louder, all eyes remain on NULGE and government authorities to find a resolution that will prioritise the welfare of Osun State’s residents over political affiliations.
