Osun Labour Council Warns Police Against Harassment of Local Government Workers

Osun State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has sounded a stern warning to the police over what it described as ongoing harassment and intimidation of local government workers across the state.

Chairman of the state NLC, Comrade Christopher Abimbola Arapasopo, raised the alarm on Monday during the 2026 annual prayer event organised by the state government, saying the situation must stop immediately or risk triggering labour action.

According to Arapasopo, reports from various local government areas indicate that some police personnel have been complicit in the intimidation of workers at the behest of certain politicians. He described such conduct as “unacceptable and disgraceful.”

“Our members have done nothing wrong. They are being criminalised for simply complying with public service rules. We have seen videos and pictures of our members being forced to kneel. We condemn this outright and call on the police to release anyone detained,” he stated.

The labour leader also accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of attempting to destabilise the state. “The APC wants to create chaos in Osun. We will resist this legally and lawfully. The police should not be used to harass our people,” he said.

Comrade Arapasopo further reaffirmed the labour movement’s support for Governor Ademola Adeleke, highlighting the administration’s achievements, including smooth minimum wage negotiations. He said the NLC and its members would mobilise voters to support the governor in the upcoming elections.

“The governor has done so much for labour and the people of Osun. We will stand by him and ensure that our votes reflect our gratitude. All actions against us will only worsen the APC’s image,” he added.

He concluded by noting that the state’s civil service will remain steadfast in delivering quality service and that workers will not retaliate unlawfully, stressing the importance of upholding principles of justice and fairness.