L.........Demands Urgent Release of Withheld Local Government Funds
The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Osun State Chapter, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his swift intervention on the rehabilitation of the Ibadan–Ilesa–Akure Expressway and Governor Ademola Adeleke for his consistent efforts in infrastructure renewal, education, healthcare, and youth development across Osun State.
The Council, however, expressed deep concern over the continued withholding of Local Government funds by the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, warning that the delay is crippling grassroots development and worsening the plight of young people in the state.
Speaking at a World Press Conference held at the NYCN State Secretariat, Testing Ground, Osogbo, the Chairman of the Council, Comrade Akinbode Olakolupo Oluwasegun (Omoakin), decried the devastating effect of the withheld funds on governance, youth empowerment, and local economic activities. He was joined by members of the State Executive Council and representatives of Voluntary Youth Organisations (VYOs).
He outlined the direct consequences of the situation:
Community development projects stalled across LGAs.
Youth empowerment programs abandoned.
Sports and cultural activities suspended.
Artisans, grassroots workers, and small-scale businesses in distress.
Rural dwellers left feeling neglected and abandoned.
“The consequence of this is growing frustration, hopelessness, and idleness among young people. An idle youth population can easily become a threat to peace, stability, and security,” he warned.
The Council urged President Tinubu to act swiftly, stating that the issue is not only financial but also a constitutional and moral responsibility.
“Mr. President, just as you listened to our cries on the Ibadan–Ilesa–Akure road, we appeal to you again. Starving the local government system of resources is equivalent to starving the people of development. It is unjust, unfair, and unacceptable,” Comrade Akinbode declared.
He further emphasized that the release of the funds would empower Governor Adeleke’s administration to deliver more effectively on its promises while reinforcing President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda at the grassroots.
On behalf of the over three million youths in Osun State, he concluded:
“Enough of the delay, enough of the suffering, enough of the excuses. Let the funds be released, let governance flow to the grassroots, and let our people breathe again.”