The Oyo State Government has dismissed as false and misleading a report circulating from an interest group regarding the payment of retirees’ gratuities between 2015 and 2018.
In an official statement issued on Wednesday, the government clarified that the claims misrepresented comments made by the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, during a recent meeting with the group led by Comrade Ojekunle Tope.
According to Prof. Adelabu, the present administration under Seyi Makinde inherited a substantial backlog of unpaid gratuities dating back to 2008. He explained that upon assumption of office, Governor Makinde immediately commenced structured payments to offset the arrears, beginning from the oldest outstanding obligations.
The Commissioner stressed that gratuity payments have been consistent and ongoing, contrary to the narrative being circulated. He noted that the administration recently increased the monthly allocation for gratuity payments from ₦1 billion to ₦3 billion, effective January 2026, as part of renewed efforts to accelerate disbursement.
Providing further clarification, Prof. Adelabu disclosed that more than 500 retirees received their gratuities in January 2026 alone. Among the beneficiaries were pensioners whose entitlements became due in 2019, demonstrating what he described as tangible progress in clearing the backlog.
He acknowledged that some retirees who qualified for payment in 2019 but are yet to receive their gratuities may be facing documentation or processing challenges. The Ministry, he said, is actively working to resolve such issues to ensure that all legitimate claims are settled without unnecessary delay.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to retirees’ welfare, the Commissioner expressed appreciation to pensioners for their patience, understanding, and continued support. He assured that the administration remains dedicated to clearing all verified outstanding gratuities in a transparent and systematic manner.
The statement was e-signed by Prince Dotun Oyelade, Commissioner for Information, on February 26, 2026.
