Why we chose to endorse Gov. Adeleke for re-election — Osun NLC, NULGE

…Unveils Imole soft loan

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in Osun State have publicly declared their support for Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election bid, citing his unwavering commitment to workers’ welfare, grassroots development, and transparency in financial management.

The endorsement was announced on Thursday when Governor Adeleke visited the State Secretariat in Abere after a brief vacation, where he was welcomed by hundreds of cheering civil servants. During the event, the governor unveiled the Imole soft loan scheme and assured workers that their well-being remains the foremost priority in his administration’s five-point agenda.

“I will ensure that workers’ welfare is a priority; it is paramount,” Adeleke said while addressing the crowd. “By the special grace of God, local government funds will come to us. Very soon, the Imole soft loan will be rolled out for you all.”

Speaking on behalf of the labour movement, Osun NLC Chairman Christopher Arapasopo declared unwavering solidarity with the governor, dismissing any attempts to intimidate the union over the ongoing dispute regarding the state’s local government allocation.

“We refuse to be intimidated,” Arapasopo asserted. “This is a direct message to the Minister of Finance, the Attorney-General of the Federation, and the Federal Government: release Osun State’s local government allocation. We stand firmly with Governor Adeleke, Imole.”

Echoing this stance, NULGE State President Nathaniel Ogungbangbe commended Adeleke’s administration for ensuring consistent salary payments and demonstrating a strong commitment to the welfare of workers at the local government level, despite financial constraints.

“Mr Governor has been exceptional in his treatment of local government workers,” Ogungbangbe said. “Instead of claiming there is no allocation and refusing to pay salaries, he has kept salaries flowing. There is no reason for us not to support him.

“We will stand with him until the very end, and that is why we are here today to reaffirm our support for Governor Adeleke ahead of 2026.”

The governor’s pledge to sustain an open-door policy and prioritise staff welfare was met with applause from the gathered workers, reinforcing Adeleke’s growing support base among state employees as preparations for the 2026 governorship election take shape.