‘We Won’t Let Oppressors Return to Power’ – NLC Chairman

Labour leaders in Osun State have thrown their weight behind Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election bid under the Accord Party for the 2026 gubernatorial elections.

The declaration came after Governor Adeleke briefed leaders of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on his political transition from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to Accord during a meeting at the Government House Banquet Hall.

Thirty-two labour leaders representing various unions attended the meeting, including Comrade Christopher Arapasopo, state NLC chairman, and Comrade Bimbo Fasasi, TUC chairman. Speaking on behalf of the labour movement, Arapasopo hailed Adeleke’s achievements, especially in workers’ welfare, and warned against allowing “oppressors and exploiters” to return to power in the state.

Arapasopo said:
“We have never had it so good as a labour movement. As far as workers are concerned, you have delivered. The promises we received before your administration never materialised, but you exceeded our expectations. The white paper we presented in 2022 was fully implemented by 2024. This support is not political—it is the reality of experience.”

He added that the labour leaders would mobilise their members and communities to ensure a resounding victory for Adeleke in 2026:
“We are a multiplier of votes. We will remind people of past oppression and ensure justice through our support. No federal might can stop the will of the people.”

Governor Adeleke, in his address, thanked the labour leaders for their support and formally invited them to endorse his new political platform under Accord. He said the move to Accord aligns with his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and outlined his five-point agenda for a second term:

1. Integrated citizens and workers’ welfare

2. Infrastructure consolidation for economic prosperity

3. Increased agro-industrial expansion for youth empowerment

4. Innovations in health, education, and social care

5. Improved business environment for job creation

Present at the meeting were Secretary to the State Government, Hon. Teslim Igbalaye; Head of Service, Elder Ayanleye Aina; Commissioner for Information, Hon. Kolapo Alimi; and Permanent Secretary, Human Resources Services and Capacity Development, Gbenga Fadele.