…Demands Action On Nat’l Issues
The Osun Masterminds, a Civil Society organisation, has raised concerns over the worsening hardship in Nigeria, describing the situation as unbearable and warning that survival has become “An extreme sport for most Nigerians.”
Addressing key governance issues in Osun Statebon Tuesday, the coalition led by Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, said life has become tougher for the average Nigerian than at any point in the country’s history, despite government claims of economic improvement.
“While government statistics seem to show improvements in the country’s economy, the life of the average Nigerian has become tougher than it has ever been at any point in our country’s history,” Prof. Oyedokun-Alli said while addressing journalists.
He pointed to rising food inflation, worsened by insecurity in agriculturally viable areas, and “Astronomical fuel costs that have blown the prices of everyday commodities out of control.”
The group called on the Federal Government to urgently implement measures to ease the burden on citizens, including reducing fuel costs and addressing insecurity affecting food supply chains.
It also urged state governments, particularly Osun, to move beyond being “procurement offices” and become “real problem solvers” by developing and implementing practical policies in agriculture, transportation, health, education, and other critical sectors.
On governance, the coalition stressed the need for states to allow local governments greater autonomy to effectively address grassroots challenges.
On the political climate, the group warned against rising tension ahead of the 2026 Osun governorship election, condemning acts of intimidation and political suppression.
It cited a recent incident involving an Accord Party supporter who displayed a cap allegedly seized from an APC supporter, describing the act as “unacceptable” and warning that it “may spiral into a full breakdown of law and order.”
The group urged political actors to conduct campaigns peacefully and respect opposing views.
It added that individuals engaging in oppression, intimidation, violence, cyberbullying, or defamation during the campaign period “are deemed enemies of the people and the State.”
While acknowledging the recent summit of opposition parties held in Ibadan, the Osun Masterminds commended efforts to strengthen democratic engagement but cautioned against inflammatory rhetoric.
“We condemn in strong terms some of the spurious claims that were made at the summit, especially those capable of inciting violence and undermining the integrity of INEC,” the statement said.
The coalition also called on the Federal Government to ensure that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is adequately supported with the resources and independence required to conduct credible elections.
On state matters, the group demanded transparency from the Osun State Government regarding the status of the staff audit conducted by consultant Sally Tibbot.
It said residents deserved clarity on the outcome of the audit, the allegations surrounding it, and any resolutions reached.
The group further queried the Osun State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Adewale Egbedun, over the prolonged abandonment of the Assembly quarters and gate projects.
According to the coalition, the projects have remained uncompleted for nearly three years despite annual budgetary allocations running into billions of naira.
It called on the Speaker to provide explanations on the delay and ensure accountability to the people.
