Ogun to pay ex-councillors

Ogun State authorities have confirmed they will settle outstanding severance payments owed to former councillors who served in the state's 20 Local Government Areas between 2021 and 2024. The announcement comes after a public appeal by the Ogun State Councillors Forum, 2021–2024, during a press conference held in Ijebu-Ode on Thursday. The former officials, representing over 300 individuals, urged Governor Dapo Abiodun to expedite the payment of their severance entitlements and related benefits. Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Ganiyu Hamzat, confirmed the directive from the governor in a telephone interview with The Punch correspondent. He explained that the process of settling the payments is ongoing and that the government is addressing the financial implications of the settlement. According to Hamzat, some of the former councillors had previously borrowed from banks, and the state is working to resolve these debts before making the payments. He emphasized that the governor had personally directed the action, ensuring that the funds would eventually reach the affected individuals. The former councillors, represented by the Ogun State Councillors Forum, highlighted the urgent need for the payments. They argued that many of the former officials are currently facing severe financial hardships, including struggles to cover basic family expenses and medical costs. A representative of the group, Abass Mohammed, a former Leader of the Legislative Council of Ijebu North Local Government, noted that approximately 25 members of the forum had already passed away since the end of their tenure. Additionally, he revealed that at least two former secretaries to local governments are currently undergoing serious medical treatments, underscoring the critical nature of the situation. Mohammed further stated that the payment of severance and benefits would serve as a crucial lifeline for the former officials, particularly given the economic pressures faced by many in the community. The forum has been actively engaging with state authorities to ensure that the pending payments are processed promptly. Their efforts have included direct appeals to Governor Abiodun, who has shown willingness to address the issue. The governor’s administration has acknowledged the importance of resolving the matter and has committed to fulfilling the obligation. However, the exact timeline for the disbursement of the funds remains unclear. While Hamzat indicated that the process is underway, he did not specify when the payments would be completed. The state government is reportedly working through the necessary administrative steps to finalize the transaction. In addition to the financial concerns, there are broader implications for governance and accountability. The resolution of this issue could set a precedent for how former public officials are treated post-retirement, potentially influencing future policies regarding severance packages and benefits. It also highlights the role of civil society organizations in advocating for the rights of retired public servants. As the Ogun State Government continues its efforts to settle the outstanding payments, the focus remains on ensuring transparency and fairness in the distribution of funds. The outcome of this process will likely be closely watched by both current and former public officials, as well as civil society groups interested in the welfare of retirees. The final step in this process will determine whether the former councillors receive the support they have long sought.