In a powerful statement addressed to Hon. Oyedokun Oyeniyi, the citizens of Ogbomoso South Local Government have asserted their demand for autonomy, expressing their dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs. The letter, penned by Mr. Adeoba Sunday on behalf of the concerned citizens, underscores the community’s frustration over the lack of consultation and perceived neglect by the state government
“Autonomy is sacrosanct, and this autonomy will stand,” the letter begins, emphasizing the community’s unwavering stance on self-governance. The citizens expressed their displeasure with the Hon. Oyeniyi’s failure to consult them on key decisions, reminding him that “Ogbomoso South Local Government is not your personal property.”
The letter outlines several grievances, notably the disparity in development projects between Ibadan and Ogbomoso South. While numerous road constructions are ongoing in Ibadan, Ogbomoso South has seen no significant road projects. The citizens highlighted the poor road conditions that have left farmers struggling to transport their products, and the persistent darkness in the area due to inadequate power infrastructure
“Ogbomoso South funds cannot be used to fund the Ibadan Circular Road,” the letter states, accusing Governor Makinde of neglecting Ogbomoso in favor of Ibadan. The LAUTECH issue, initially perceived as an administrative matter, is now seen as part of a broader strategy to undermine Ogbomoso by opposing local government autonomy.
The citizens also criticized the allocation of Ogbomoso South funds to the Fasola Agric Business Hub while neglecting the Ogbomoso Farm Settlement. The letter points out the construction of multiple bus terminals and housing estates in Ibadan, questioning the lack of similar developments in Ogbomoso South.
“We demand LG autonomy in Ogbomoso South and will not tolerate any deviation from this goal,” the letter declares, urging Hon. Oyeniyi to resist any attempts to deceive or manipulate him against the interests of Ogbomoso South. The letter ends with a call to stand firm against what it describes as a dictatorial approach by the state government.
This demand for autonomy comes just days after Hon. Oyedokun Oyeniyi and 32 other local government chairmen in Oyo State pulled out of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), a move that many in the public perceive as influenced by the governor. The concerned citizens of Ogbomoso South have made their voices heard, seeking fair treatment and autonomy to address their local needs. As the call for local government autonomy gains momentum, the response from Hon. Oyeniyi and the state government remains to be seen