The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives has again demanded the immediate release of statutory allocations due to local governments in Osun State, accusing the Federal Government of breaching the Constitution and court rulings.
In a statement signed by Minority Leader, Rep. O.K. Chinda; Minority Whip, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ali Isa J.C; Deputy Minority Leader, Rt. Hon. Aliyu Madaki; and Deputy Minority Whip, Rt. Hon. George Ozodinobi, the lawmakers said reports that the funds had been withheld since February 2025 were “credible and deeply troubling.”
“The Caucus of the House of Representatives is deeply concerned by credible reports that the Federal Government has been withholding statutory allocations meant for the Local Government Councils in Osun State since February 2025,” the statement read.
According to them, the action violates Sections 7 and 162 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee local government autonomy. They recalled that the Supreme Court had long affirmed in A.G Lagos State vs. A.G Federation (2004) that the President has no power to suspend or withhold such funds.
“There is no legal basis for this action… The withholding of these allocations is not only unconstitutional but also a blatant disregard for the rule of law and judicial pronouncements,” the Caucus stated.
They also warned of grave political consequences. “This interference risks escalating political tensions, fueling distrust in federal institutions, and creating an impression of partisan overreach,” they said, adding that judgments from the Court of Appeal and Osun State High Court in February and June 2025 had already affirmed the legitimacy of elected PDP council officials entitled to manage the funds.
The lawmakers further decried the impact on workers and local economies. “Without these funds, thousands of workers face financial hardship, unable to meet basic needs such as food, housing, and medical care. Local economies suffer as reduced purchasing power stifles small businesses, markets, and service providers,” the statement added.
They warned that if the allocations were not released, the Caucus might resort to legislative measures.
“The Caucus will use the only weapon it has, which is its legislative action, as that seems to be the available option to drive home its message,” the statement said.
The lawmakers urged President Bola Tinubu to “immediately direct all relevant authorities to release all funds meant for Local Government Councils in Osun State without further delay” and advised government agencies to “abide by the rule of law and justice.”