By Prince Mathew Adesegun Ibiyemi
“He expected a crop of justice, but instead he found oppression.” (Isaiah 5:7). This haunting verse mirrors the grim reality in Osun State, where political gridlock has paralysed local governments and suffocated grassroots development.
While neighbouring states commission projects and empower communities, Osun remains frozen in political limbo. The ongoing tug-of-war between the ruling party and the opposition has effectively shut down local councils—the very foundation of democratic governance and service delivery.
Governor Nurudeen Jackson Adeleke may point to state-level infrastructure projects as signs of progress, but even he must concede that much more could have been achieved had local governments remained functional. Meanwhile, former Governor Adegboyega Oyetola and his allies must also reflect: does demanding accountability justify leaving the people without governance?
The cost of this political impasse is devastating. Basic services like issuing certificates of origin have become near-impossible, forcing citizens to seek illegal alternatives. Worse still, the conflict has claimed lives—collateral damage in a needless battle for control.
Local government councils were created to be the pulse of development—responsive, visible, and accessible. When they are silenced, the democratic process is disrupted, and the people are the first to suffer.
This is not just a partisan feud—it’s a betrayal of public trust. It’s time for Osun’s leaders to put aside propaganda and ego and embrace lawful resolution. The path forward is simple: honour the judgment of a competent court, restore governance, and let the people breathe.
Leadership is not about scoring political points; it’s about delivering for the people. Osun deserves better. Osun deserves peace. And most importantly, Osun deserves progress.
Prince Mathew Adesegun Ibiyemi writes from the Agaako royal family compound, Ile-Ife, Osun State.
