Ogun CSOs reject multiple levies, demand harmonised regulatory framework

By Adejoke Adeleye

Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Ogun State have called on the state government and regulatory agencies to harmonise compliance requirements and avoid policies that could commercialise nonprofit operations through multiple registrations, renewals and fees.

Speaking at a media briefing on Monday ,on behalf of the CSO Self-Regulatory Community of Practice (CoP), Ogun State, with support from Global Rights, Dr Tayo Akinpelu said civil society groups are committed to strengthening internal accountability while advocating for an enabling environment that supports their role in governance and development.

The group noted that CSOs, NGOs and other nonprofit organisations have played a critical role in grassroots development, transparency advocacy and social welfare across the state.

However, Akinpelu stressed that the sector must uphold high standards of integrity and compliance to effectively hold government accountable on issues such as public procurement, local government autonomy and healthcare delivery.

According to the CoP, concerns have emerged in policy circles suggesting that CSOs operate without adequate regulation.

The group argued that existing legal and institutional bills at both federal and state levels already provide sufficient oversight for the establishment and operation of civil society organisations.

To improve compliance within the sector, the CoP said it has trained more than 100 CSOs on regulatory obligations, supported organisations to meet legal requirements, increased awareness of existing regulatory frameworks and promoted voluntary self-regulation, transparency and accountability.

The group however identified several challenges facing CSOs in Ogun State, which includes:Persistent misconceptions that CSOs are unregulated,Multiple and overlapping compliance requirements from different government agencies,Increasing commercialisation of regulatory processes through numerous fees and registration demands, and

Limited support systems for grassroots organisations seeking to understand and meet compliance obligations.

The CSO Self-Regulatory Community of Practice urged the Ogun State Government to harmonize all regulatory requirements affecting CSOs,eliminate duplication in registration and compliance processes, avoid policies that impose excessive financial burdens on nonprofit organisations, strengthen collaboration and dialogue with civil society actors.

The group also urged CSOs across Ogun State to comply with all applicable laws, uphold transparency and accountability standards, participate in self-regulatory initiatives and embrace ethical practices that strengthen public trust.

The CoP maintained that a self-compliant civil society possesses the moral authority to demand accountability from government institutions.

“A vibrant civil society sector remains essential to good governance, democratic participation and sustainable development.

Strengthening compliance with existing regulations, rather than creating additional layers of regulation, is the most effective approach to promoting accountability while preserving civic space,” the group stated.