The National Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Ajibola Bashiru, has assured civil servants in Osun State of the party’s continued respect and cooperation, declaring that workers remain critical stakeholders in the political and developmental future of the state.
Bashiru made the remarks during a meeting with former officials of the Local Government Education Authority held at his residence in Osogbo, where he addressed concerns over alleged derogatory comments made against civil servants by some political actors.
The APC chieftain distanced the party from such statements, insisting that individuals attacking workers were speaking in their personal capacities and not on behalf of the party or its leadership.
According to him, the APC has always recognised the importance of civil servants in governance and public administration, stressing that no responsible political party would undermine the people responsible for implementing government policies and maintaining the machinery of the state.
Bashiru said the contributions of workers to governance, economic stability and public service delivery could not be ignored, adding that the party remains committed to maintaining cordial relations with civil servants across the state.
He explained that civil servants occupy a strategic position in society because they serve as the bridge between government policies and the people, noting that their experience and dedication remain indispensable to sustainable development.
The former senator also emphasised that the APC would continue to engage workers respectfully and constructively ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state.
He stated that the party understands the influence and relevance of civil servants in the electoral process and governance structure, adding that they remain central to the APC’s political calculations and aspirations.
According to Bashiru, any attempt to intimidate, insult or alienate workers would be counterproductive and inconsistent with the ideology of the APC.
He urged civil servants not to be discouraged by inflammatory political remarks, assuring them that the party values their sacrifices and contributions to Osun State.
The APC National Secretary further noted that workers deserve improved welfare, respect and an enabling environment to discharge their responsibilities effectively.
He maintained that meaningful governance can only thrive where there is mutual understanding and cooperation between political leaders and the civil service.
Bashiru also used the occasion to call for unity among party members and supporters, urging them to avoid statements capable of creating unnecessary tension or division within the state.
He stressed that political competition should not degenerate into attacks on professionals and public servants who remain vital to the functioning of government institutions.
Some of the former Local Government Education Authority officials at the meeting reportedly appreciated the reassurance given by the APC leadership, saying civil servants needed to be treated with dignity regardless of political differences.
The meeting formed part of wider consultations and political engagements ahead of the governorship election, which political observers expect to generate intense campaigns among major political parties in the state.
With preparations for the poll gradually gathering momentum, political actors have continued to intensify efforts to court strategic groups, including workers, youths, community leaders and professional associations across Osun State.
Analysts believe Bashiru’s comments may help calm tensions generated by recent political exchanges involving workers and public servants in the state, while also reinforcing the APC’s efforts to strengthen its support base ahead of the election.
