Make No Mistake About Ogbomoso North LGA Financial Autonomy, Concerned Citizen Addresses Council Chair Ogunlade in a Public Letter.

An Open Letter to the Chairman Ogbomoso North Local Government

By Akinola Olatunde Joseph (TFAT)

Dear Honorable George Ogunlade,

As a stern and reputable citizen of Ogbomoso North who has consistently contributed to our local government, I feel compelled to express the growing concerns of our community regarding the governance and development of Ogbomoso North Local Government. The sentiment among the citizens has reached a boiling point, and I write this as a voice for those who demand a fair and just administration.

Recently, a powerful statement was addressed to your colleague, the Chairman of Ogbomoso South Local Government, Hon, Oyedokun Oyeniyi encapsulating the community's frustration and dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. The letter, penned by Mr. Adeoba Sunday on behalf of concerned citizens, underscores a critical issue: the demand for autonomy and the blatant neglect by the state government.

"Autonomy is sacrosanct, and this autonomy will stand," the letter boldly begins, reflecting the community's unwavering stance on self-governance. This is to bring to your attention that the grievances did not end at the shore of Ogbomoso South Local Government, considering the scope of the situation ongoing, the public irrespective of local government area or identity have joined hands to collectively expressed their displeasure with your apparent disregard for their input on crucial decisions, emphasizing that Ogbomoso North Local Government is no man’s personal property.

It’s disheartening to learn through the letter that numerous ‘Paul is being robbed to pay Peter’ looking into the case study of the disparity in development projects between Ibadan and Ogbomoso North is glaring. While Ibadan enjoys numerous road constructions, Ogbomoso North suffers from poor road conditions that drag back economic activity and social development. The persistent darkness due to inadequate power infrastructure only adds to the community's struggles.

Like numerous who seek clarity on the accusations that Local Governments Fund, among which Ogbomoso North funds is part of are being diverted to projects like the Ibadan Circular Road while our local issues remain unaddressed. The neglect of Ogbomoso in favor of Ibadan has left many feeling marginalized, with the LAUTECH issue serving as a stark example of a broader strategy to undermine Ogbomoso by opposing local government autonomy.

 

To re-echo the letter by Adeoba Sunday, "We demand LG autonomy in Ogbomoso North and will not tolerate any deviation from this goal." This is not just a call for better governance but a demand for respect and fairness. The citizens urge you to stand firm against any attempts to deceive or manipulate you against the interests of Ogbomoso North. The dictatorial approach by the state government is unacceptable, and it is time for our local leaders to prioritize the needs of their constituents.

This demand for autonomy follows the recent decision by you and 32 other local government chairmen in Oyo State to pull out of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), a move perceived by many as influenced by the governor. The concerned citizens of Ogbomoso North have made their voices heard, seeking fair treatment and autonomy to address their local needs.

As a committed citizen of Ogbomoso North, I stand with the people of our community in their quest for justice and autonomy. It is time for our leaders to listen, to act, and to ensure that all citizens receive the fair treatment and opportunities they deserve. We eagerly await your response and action on these critical issues.

Sincerely,

TFAT