– By Prince Jide Akinyooye
There is no doubt that the acrimony that was politically fueled on “who controls Osun Local Government democratically elected administration is over”; this marks a turning point on past needless crisis that appeared to have been sustained and supported by the federal might. Interestingly, time has patiently settled part of the issues. Even an insane mind knows that the council officers that were democratically elected on Saturday, 22nd February, 2025 only remain in control of local government affairs in Osun State, except the Supreme Court of Nigeria later ruled otherwise.
Given this development, it’s imperative for President Bola Tinubu to consider releasing the withheld allocations to the state’s 30 local government areas.
The Current Situation
The federal government has withheld Osun State’s local government allocations since February 2025, citing a dispute over the legitimacy of the local government leadership. However, the Court of Appeal judgment has clarified the matter, affirming the PDP’s victory in the February elections.
Why President Tinubu Should Release the Allocation
Releasing the withheld funds would be a welcome relief for the people of Osun State, who have been bearing the brunt of the political impasse. The allocations are crucial for funding essential services and community development projects in the state.
Some of the key reasons why President Tinubu should release the funds include:
Constitutional Provision:
The 1999 Constitution guarantees local government autonomy, and withholding funds meant for the local governments is a clear breach of this provision.
Court Judgment:
The Court of Appeal’s judgment affirming the PDP’s victory in the February elections provides a clear legal basis for releasing the funds.
Humanitarian Concerns:
Withheld allocations have caused significant hardship for the people of Osun State, and releasing the funds would help alleviate their suffering.
Notably, rule of law is the beauty of democracy:
President Tinubu should harp on this to release withheld Osun Local Government allocation with immediate effect in the spirit of fairness, justice and honesty
The rule of law is a fundamental principle of democracy, ensuring that all citizens are equal before the law and that the government is not above the law. As the President of Nigeria and political father of the country, His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, has consistently emphasized the importance of democracy and the rule of law, it’s essential that he practices what he preaches.
Criticism Against Withheld Osun Local Government Allocation
The federal government’s decision to withhold the Osun State local government allocation has sparked widespread criticism, with many arguing that it’s an unconstitutional act. The allocation, which is meant to fund essential services and community development projects, has been withheld since February 2025, causing significant hardship for the people of Osun State.
The Rule of Law Must Prevail
In a democratic society, the rule of law is essential for ensuring that power is exercised in a manner that is consistent with the constitution and the laws of the land. The court ruled in favor of the Osun State government, affirming the legitimacy of the local government officials elected in February 2025. Therefore, it’s imperative that President Tinubu respects the rule of law and directs the release of the withheld allocation; especial that time has overlap the artificial crisis of who controls the affairs of local government administration in Osun State.
Why President Tinubu Should Act
As the President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu has a responsibility to uphold the constitution and ensure that the rule of law is respected. By releasing the withheld allocation, he would be demonstrating his commitment to democracy and the rule of law. This would also help to:
– Restore Trust: In the government and its institutions
-Promote Stability: By resolving the crisis and ensuring that essential services are funded
– Uphold Democracy: By respecting the rule of law and the court’s decision
Conclusion
The rule of law is the foundation of democracy, and it’s essential that President Tinubu prioritizes it by releasing the withheld Osun local government allocation. By doing so, he would be demonstrating his commitment to democracy, stability, and the well-being of the people of Osun State.
Let’s hope that President Tinubu will take the right step and direct the release of the withheld allocation, upholding the rule of law and respecting the court’s decision.
Prince Jide Akinyooye is a Chartered Accountant and Coordinator of Dee Osun Monitors
