The Coalition of Concerned Nigerian Citizens (CCNC) yesterday highlighted Osun State's sufferings caused by the prolonged withholding of local government funds by the APC-led government.

Mr. Raufu Sodiq, the spokesperson of the coalition, spoke about how the situation has inflicted widespread hardship on residents across the state at a press conference held in Osogbo.

According to him, the coalition carried out extensive investigations, which involved field visits, interviews with community stakeholders, and assessments across major sectors. He said the findings revealed that the continued withholding of local government allocations has crippled livelihoods and weakened essential public services.

He said, "The people of Osun are suffering; the impact of this withheld fund is visible in every community across the state. Many small businesses that rely on local government workers for patronage have suffered declining income, high debt levels, and rising health issues due to financial strain.

Over N500 million worth of agricultural projects, which is a significant investment, have been abandoned, and this is a direct threat to food security in Osun State. Many students are now malnourished, and schools have accumulated debts owed to food vendors."

The coalition also issued a series of demands, disclosing that they would escalate the situation by organizing mass protests across the country.

He said, "We are giving the Central Bank of Nigeria a three-day ultimatum to ensure the funds are released and accessible to all local governments. If the Federal Government fails to respond within three days, we will adopt more drastic measures, including nationwide confrontation, to seek justice for the people of Osun"