The Osun State Government has refuted any plans to carry out a mass sack of employees or reintroduce the concept of modulated salaries.
In addition, the government has affirmed its willingness to engage with all stakeholders who are committed to the development of the state.
This response comes in light of certain concerns raised during a press conference organized by the Nigeria Union of Pensioners in Osogbo.
Speaking on behalf of the pensioners, Comrade Sola Olojede, the state Secretary of the Forum of 2011 Contributory Pensioners, emphasized the need for fair pension harmonization.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the fact that some pensioners had received the same pension amount for a period ranging from 12 to 23 years.
Olojede appealed to Governor Adeleke to make bulk payments of gratuity to retired individuals in the state, highlighting that the current piecemeal payment system was not adequately meeting the needs of many members in the group.
He pointed out that the limited funds received were primarily used for basic sustenance, while other essential requirements were left unaddressed.
Furthermore, Olojede stated that the group had made several unsuccessful attempts to arrange a meeting with the governor.
As a result, they requested the appointment of capable individuals from their group as Commissioners and Special Advisers to the governor.
Responding to the demands, the government in statement by the spokesperson to the governor, Olawale Rasheed, on Thursday, said Governor Ademola Adeleke was available to meet all stakeholders for the development of the state.
The statement further read, “we affirm that there is neither a plan to sack workers nor any re-introduction of half salary. This was old fake news sponsored by agents of the opposition which the public is implored to ignore.
“The government also wishes to state that Governor Ademola Adeleke is available to meet all stakeholders for the development of the state. As a responsive leader, the Governor has met many groups and associations since assuming office. Many of such groups are also lined up for appointments with the state chief executive officer including the protesting pensioners.
“It is however important to note that the Government of Governor Ademola Adeleke has remained committed to meeting its financial obligations to workers, both in and out of service. The government can however not pay off all outstanding salaries and pensions all at once due to paucity of funds which is known to all stakeholders.”
