On this Democracy Day, I had intended to rest my pen. I wanted to leave the fate written on the walls of history to speak for itself. I thought perhaps the sacrifices of those who fought for democracy were enough testimony. Yet, in the final hour, a thought stirred within me, compelling me to write a message to all of us who have come together to form this sovereign nation called Nigeria. My message is particularly for those who believe that the business of Nigeria lies in the hands of a powerful few. Perhaps they are influenced by what the German sociologist Robert Michels described as the "Iron Law of Oligarchy" ,the tendency for power to concentrate in the hands of a small elite. Looking at our politics, our institutions, and our economy, one may be tempted to believe that the destiny of Nigeria is determined only by those who occupy powerful offices and influential positions. But history tells a different story. Nigeria does not belong to any president, governor, politi...
BREAKING: Osun LG Crisis — Awotunde Sharafadeen Sends Strong Message to CBN, APC; Warns Against Anarchy
Osogbo, June 24, 2025
In a press conference held at 10:00 AM today, Hon. Awotunde Sharafadeen, Chairman of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs at the Osun State Ministry of Local Government, addressed the ongoing local government crisis in the state, issuing a stern warning to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and members of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Sharafadeen began by referencing the recent Court of Appeal ruling in Akure, which he said did not reinstate any former YES/NO chairmen, nor did it overturn previous decisions affirming the legitimacy of the current local government leadership.
“The judgment was clear, it did not reinstate anyone. There is no legal basis for these impostors parading themselves as chairmen,” he said.
He went on to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for upholding the rule of law and for his longstanding commitment to democratic principles in Nigeria.
“We thank our President, a true democrat who has refused to interfere with judicial processes,” he said. “Following the Appeal Court ruling, President Tinubu directed that all council accounts be opened through the Central Bank of Nigeria’s regional office.”
However, Sharafadeen expressed deep concern over attempts by unauthorized individuals allegedly dismissed YES/NO chairmen, to gain access to these accounts. He emphasized that only duly authorized officers can sign local government financial documents.
“Let it be known: the only recognized signatories to these accounts are the elected chairmen, the Director of Finance, the Director of Administration and General Services, and the Head of Local Government Administration.
Anyone else acting behind closed doors is committing a criminal offence. The CBN belongs to all Nigerians, not to any group or political party,” he stated.
Sharafadeen described an incident that took place at the CBN regional office on June 23, where he and his team confronted what they believed were impostors attempting to collect sensitive financial documents.
“We got wind of the illegal move and arrived at the CBN around 3 PM. The Controller was said to be absent, and we met with the Deputy Chief Security Officer. He told us to return the next day to see the Controller,” Sharafadeen explained.
“We returned before 8:00 AM this morning, but despite our peaceful presence, the gates were shut by order of the Controller. This raised suspicion. One MOPOL officer on duty made unprofessional remarks, we have recordings, and we will report this to the appropriate authorities.”
He further alleged that a security officer from a private firm trampled on official court documents, behavior he described as “disgraceful.”
“Even in countries with less developed institutions, we don’t see that kind of disrespect for legal authority. That document is a symbol of the rule of law,” he said.
Sharafadeen advised the CBN to uphold neutrality and transparency:
“This is a taxpayer-funded institution. You may be in Osun today and transferred to Abia or the Northeast tomorrow. If you can’t follow the law, kindly step aside for someone who can. Let’s avoid unnecessary embarrassment.”
He reassured the public that the current administration seeks peace, not conflict:
“We are peace-loving people. We appreciate our civil servants. But even a goat, when pushed against a wall, will eventually resist. Enough is enough.”
He concluded with a message to the APC and its supporters:
“If you celebrated your victories, learn to accept defeat with grace. Whether you’re in power or not, Osun will continue to move forward. We thank our governor and the good people of Osun for making peace a priority.”
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