Osun Government Clarifies Position On Local Government Salaries

* Explains Status Of ₦230 Billion Withheld Allocation

The Osun State Government has taken note of recent public commentaries concerning the status of local government workers’ salaries, particularly claims suggesting that salaries are not being paid due to the hijacking of local government allocations. Such narratives misrepresent the facts surrounding the financial situation of the local government system in Osun State.

In a statement issued on Tuesday Morning, the Commissioner for Information and public enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi stated unequivocally that “there has been no interruption in the payment of core salaries to local government workers. Salaries are being paid fully and as at when due.

“Despite the hijacking of local government allocations for almost a year, funds now totaling approximately ₦230 billion, the Osun State Government under Governor Ademola Jackson Nurudeen Adeleke has sustained salary payments through the state’s resources. This intervention has ensured financial stability for workers and shielded families from avoidable hardship” he declared.

However, he added that “the continued hijacking of the ₦230 billion allocation has directly impacted the payment of certain allowances and supplementary entitlements ordinarily funded from those statutory allocations. These obligations are structurally tied to funds accruing to the local government system and cannot be fully accommodated in the absence of those resources.

The hijacked funds were meant to support grassroots administration, development initiatives, operational responsibilities, and worker-related benefits at the local level. Without access to these allocations, the financial structure designed to support allowances and additional entitlements has been significantly constrained.

Oluomo Alimi reiterates that “while allowances and other supplementary payments have been affected by the withheld funds, salaries remain consistent and uninterrupted. Clear distinctions must be maintained to ensure public understanding is guided by facts.

“The welfare of workers remains a priority, as demonstrated by the state government’s decision to sustain salary payments despite substantial financial challenges” he concluded.