In Ogun State, a dispute over unpaid benefits has surfaced, pitting former Governor Ibikunle Amosun against his successor, Governor Dapo Abiodun. The contention revolves around severance allowances owed to special assistants who served under Amosun’s administration from 2015 to 2019.
The former aides have sought intervention from President Bola Tinubu, asserting that despite numerous pleas, their dues remain unsettled since 2019. In response, Mr. Kayode Akinmade, the media strategist for Governor Abiodun, has shifted the blame back to Amosun, stating that the former governor’s actions are the root cause of the nonpayment.
Akinmade accuses Amosun of selectively paying his political appointees while excluding the special assistants, a move he deems contrary to standard civil administration protocols. Consequently, the current administration claims it is unable to fulfill these severance payments due to the decisions made by Amosun.
Amosun, however, refuted these allegations. He maintains that during his tenure, he honored the severance benefits of appointees from the previous administration without hesitation, adhering to the principle that government is a continuum. He criticizes the current administration for shirking its responsibilities and engaging in what he describes as a “pull him down syndrome.”
The former governor’s statement emphasizes the need for the present administration to focus on governance rather than perpetuating a vendetta. He urges his successor to address the state’s statutory obligations and deliver on the promise of good governance.
This ongoing tussle highlights the challenges of political transitions and the importance of clear communication and adherence to administrative protocols. It also underscores the need for leaders to prioritize the welfare of their aides and employees, who have dedicated their time and efforts to public service.
As the debate continues, the affected former aides remain caught in the crossfire, awaiting a resolution that will honor their contributions to the state. The situation calls for a compassionate and fair approach, ensuring that those who have served are duly recognized and compensated.
This dispute is not just about unpaid benefits; it’s a reflection of the broader issues of accountability and continuity in governance. It serves as a reminder that political office bearers must uphold the trust placed in them by the public and their teams, ensuring that their actions align with the principles of fairness and justice.
The disagreement between Amosun and Abiodun over unpaid benefits is a complex issue rooted in political dynamics and administrative decisions. It is imperative for the current administration to address this matter with transparency and fairness, setting a precedent for how such disputes are handled in the future. The people of Ogun State, as well as the former aides, deserve a resolution that upholds the integrity of the state’s governance and respects the service of its public servants.
