Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared Friday, August 14, a work-free day for all public servants in Osun State, clearing the path for workers to travel and prepare for Saturday’s crucial governorship election.
The declaration, contained in a circular issued by Head of Service Elder Ayanleye Aina, covers all categories of workers except those engaged in emergency and essential services.
The Time for Action Has Come
In a passionate pre-election message, Adeleke called on workers, their relatives, and friends to vote massively and protect their ballots.
“The time for action has come. As formal workers at state establishments, I task you to mobilise informal workers, artisans and professional bodies. We must remain strong in defence of our constitutional rights to vote and be voted for,” the governor declared through his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed.
No Return to Dark Days
Adeleke praised the labour movement’s leadership and workers for their support of his administration, describing their relationship as mutually beneficial.
He urged them to defend what he called the gains of his administration over the past three and a half years.
“Ours is a workers-friendly government which has delivered across board to labour and Osun people. We cannot and must not allow a return to dark days,” he added.
Workers Exempted Only for Emergency Duties
The circular stressed that the work-free day is aimed at allowing workers to travel where necessary and make adequate preparations to exercise their franchise, with only those in emergency and essential services required to remain on duty.
