The Oyo State Government has dismissed as misleading a report circulating from an interest group regarding the payment of retirees’ gratuities between 2015 and 2018.
The Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, described the publication as a distortion of his engagement with the group.
He explained that during a meeting with representatives led by Comrade Ojekunle Tope, he had clearly stated that the current administration of Governor Seyi Makinde inherited a backlog of unpaid gratuities dating as far back as 2008.
According to the Commissioner, upon assuming office, Governor Makinde commenced the phased settlement of the arrears starting from 2008, and the payment process has since remained steady and ongoing.
Prof. Adelabu further disclosed that following the upward review of the monthly gratuity allocation from ₦1 billion to ₦3 billion, effective January 2026, the Ministry has intensified its efforts and restructured its payment framework to fast-track disbursements.
He noted that in January 2026 alone, more than 500 retirees received their gratuities, including pensioners whose benefits became due in 2019.
The Commissioner added that retirees who became eligible in 2019 but are yet to receive payment may be facing documentation or administrative processing issues, which the Ministry is actively addressing.
While appreciating pensioners for their patience and cooperation, he reassured them of the government’s commitment to clearing all legitimate outstanding gratuities in due course.