Ondo workers, pensioners shutdown Gov. Akeredolu’s office overoutstanding arrears, gratuities

Workers and pensioners in Ondo State have appealed to the state government for a proper disbursement of the recent tranche of the Paris Club refund from the Federal Government, in order to offset their salary arrears and gratuities.

Armed with placards bearing various inscriptions such as “Akeredolu should have mercy on us” “The Governor has refused to grant audience to pensioners” “We are tired of promise and fail”, the organized labour and pensioners converged on the Governor’s Office in Akure where they accused the state government of withholding the Paris Club refund released to it by the federal government with the aim of diverting the fund.

They also lamented that the state government has failed to pay workers their outstanding salaries and pensions, as directed by the federal government.

Addressing the aggrieved workers and pensioners, the state Head of Service, Toyin Akinkuotu reiterated the commitment of government to prioritising the welfare of workers.

Also speaking, Mr. Akinsanmi, the representative of the Account General, stated that about 3 to 4 weeks ago alert of 20.9billon Paris Club Refund was received for the payment.

He said the money is for both the local government and the Ondo state government but the amount was withdrawn by CBN from state covers because the federal government wants to verify Ondo state’s statement of account which will be presented to the Governor’s forum.

The workers and pensioners however gave the state government till the end of October for them to be paid or the state risks an industrial action.