By Prince Jide Akinyooye
In the intricate dance of Nigerian politics, where federal might often tramples state autonomy; Osun State finds itself entangled in a web of political vendetta. The withholding of Local Government Area (LGA) allocation since February 2025 has brought untold hardship to the good people of Osun, despite a clear judgment from the Court of Appeal, Akure, affirming the status of the state’s local government election.
The Office of the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) has become an instrument of oppression, wielding its power to punish and coerce rather than uphold the rule of law. This blatant display of political bias has reduced the AGF’s office to a mere extension of the ruling party’s machinery, rather than a neutral arbiter of justice.
When the water is dirty, what do you use to clean the dirt, especially that water is known as a major solution for cleaning. The worst that usually attaches to dirty water is that it’s always hard to see it to the bottom just as when politics is tainted with bias and vendetta, it’s challenging to discern justice. The AGF’s actions have muddied the waters, creating an environment where states are held hostage by the federal government like it is happening to the people and government of Osun State.
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*The people of Osun State deserve better. They deserve a government that respects the rule of law, upholds the principles of federalism, and prioritizes their welfare. It’s time for the federal government to recognize the autonomy of states and respect the judgments of the courts. It is surprising that the style of approach by the federal government and relationship of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration with the Osun State Government is really showing a negative indication that may likely transcend beyond imaginable polity!*
The withholding of LGA allocation is not just an economic strangulation of Osun State; it’s a blatant disregard for the democratic process. This is not only unjustifiable and unacceptable but also an open display of unwarranted political dictatorship in a democratic dispensation.The AGF’s office must remember that its power is not absolute and that the Constitution is supreme.
As the situation stands, one wonders if the AGF’s office has forgotten that its role is to uphold the law, not to perpetuate political vendetta. The people of Osun State will not be intimidated; they will continue to demand justice and fairness.
When the water is dirty, it’s essential to clean it up. Similarly, when politics is tainted with bias, it’s crucial to return to the principles of justice and fairness. The AGF’s office must release the withheld allocation and respect the Court of Appeal’s judgment.
The fate of Osun State’s LGAs and the well-being of its people hang in the balance. It’s time for the federal government to act with integrity and respect the rule of law. The water needs to be cleaned up, and justice needs to be served.
In the heart of Nigeria, where democracy’s flame flickers bright,
A struggle unfolds, a test of wills in sight.
Osun State’s allocation, withheld without just cause,
A blow to the grassroots, a wound that gnaws.
*The Nigeria Labour Congress, a champion of the people’s rights, stands tall, unshaken in the fight….For democracy’s sake, for justice’s call, you are marching forward, never faltering, never succumbing. With every step, you pave the way for the oppressed….For the voices of the marginalized to sway. The withholding of funds, a punitive measure to hurt the innocent public, the vulnerable, a lot of overpowered masses that have been tagged as opposition in order to score cheap scores that cannot stand the test of time.*
President President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we appeal to your noble heart, consider the consequences, the pain, the smart.
The grassroots suffer, the most vulnerable cry……. Is this the Nigeria we strive for, or a nation gone awry?
And to the Attorney General of Federation and Honourable Minister of Justice, Hon. Lateef Olasunkanmi Fagbemi; SAN we pray, Let conscience guide your actions, come what may.
Your office holds great power, a sacred trust,
Use it to uphold justice, not to oppress or rust.
The Nigeria Labour Congress, continue your noble quest….
For democracy’s triumph, for the people’s rest.
Your struggle is not in vain, the nation watches with hope,
Together, you can bring change, a brighter scope.
Let the voices of the people be heard,
Let justice roll down, like a mighty river’s word.
The fate of Osun State’s LGAs, a test of our resolve,
A call to action, a challenge to evolve.
We stand with you, NLC, in this righteous fight,
For democracy’s sake, for the people’s light.
May your efforts bear fruit, may justice prevail,
And Nigeria’s future, a brighter tale, unfolds.
(Prince Jide Akinyooye; a Chartered Accountant is the Coordinator of Dee Osun Monitors)