Our attention has been drawn to a recent statement issued by the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP), alleging that the Dapo Abiodun-led administration is guilty of “monumental betrayal” of workers’ trust over an alleged ₦82 billion in unremitted pension deductions and the ongoing pension reform process.
Ordinarily, such political mudslinging, laden with half-truths, historical amnesia, and outright mischief, would not merit a response. However, in the interest of setting the records straight and preventing the further misdirection of public discourse, it is important to clarify the facts for the good people of Ogun State.
A Misleading Figure and Misplaced Accusation:
The oft-quoted figure of ₦82 billion being parroted by the PDP is not a product of the Dapo Abiodun administration alone. It is, in fact, a cumulative pension liability that spans across multiple administrations, including that of PDP-led governments in Ogun State. It is either deliberate dishonesty or an unfortunate lapse in memory for the PDP to ignore its own role in the historical accumulation of the said obligations.
The attempt to single out Governor Abiodun’s government as the originator or sole contributor to this backlog is not only intellectually dishonest but morally indefensible. A simple audit of the state’s pension records will clearly reveal that the legacy pension burden is an inherited challenge — one which Governor Abiodun has, in fact, taken concrete steps to address.
Moreover, the Dapo Abiodun administration has in the last 6yrs paid billions with the view to offsetting backlogs, if they care to check the records.
Facts Over Fiction:
If the PDP genuinely cared to consult the records, which remain publicly accessible, it would find that the Dapo Abiodun administration has, in the past six years, paid several billions of naira toward offsetting pension arrears and gratuities. While the backlog remains a challenge, it is one this administration inherited and has steadily worked to reduce; not one it created.
The idea, therefore, that the government has remained “silent” or is guilty of “criminal negligence” is not only unfair and false, but it is also a weak attempt at politicising a sensitive and ongoing reform process.
Reforming with Responsibility:
Far from the picture of negligence being painted, the framework for pension reform under Governor Abiodun is a well-considered component of the administration’s broader agenda for sustainable governance and workers’ welfare. Rather than continue the trend of reactive and opaque pension practices, this administration is pushing for a Contributory Pension System (CPS) that guarantees long-term transparency, accountability, and dignity for Ogun State’s workforce.
The CPS reform is not a smokescreen as alleged; it is a necessary and consultative process aimed at building durable structures for the future. The government has engaged labour leaders and continues to work on the institutional frameworks, including the establishment of pension boards, a functional pension database, and a phased plan to address legacy liabilities.
Sincerity Should Be Reciprocal:
While it is expected that opposition parties will scrutinize government policies, such criticism must be rooted in facts, not fantasy. It is misleading and frankly irresponsible to accuse the Abiodun administration of embezzlement or criminal negligence without providing any verifiable evidence to support such a grave claim.
The Ogun PDP’s penchant for spinning numbers without context or sincerity of purpose does not only undermine public trust; it betrays the very workers they pretend to defend. Sincerity is not just demanded from government; it is also expected of those who wish to hold government accountable.
Governor Abiodun’s Record Speaks:
Governor Dapo Abiodun remains committed to responsible governance, with verifiable records of prioritising the welfare of workers and retirees. From prompt salary payments to deliberate pension settlements and inclusive engagement on reform initiatives, this administration has shown a sincerity of purpose and an open-door approach to problem-solving.
The reformed pension agenda will not be derailed by spurious accusations or politically-motivated distractions. It will proceed carefully, transparently, and in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.
Conclusion:
The Dapo Abiodun-led administration urges the Ogun State PDP and other political actors to engage in constructive criticism backed by facts, not propaganda. The road to reform is not paved with sentiment but with sincerity, strategy, and service. Ogun State workers deserve clarity, not chaos.
Signed:
Akinleye Olu-Phillips
Media Consultant to Hon. Adekunle Akinlade (Triple A)
Date: Tuesday, 8th July 2025.
