Pensioners in Osun State under the 2011/2012 Pensioners Forum have called on voters to reject the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and its National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, in the forthcoming gubernatorial election, warning that the state cannot afford to return to “retrogression.”
Addressing a press conference in Osogbo on Thursday, the forum’s chairman, Comrade Omoniyi Ilesanmi, alongside Secretary Comrade Sola Olojede, urged the people of Osun and all stakeholders to prevent Aregbesola, either directly or through ADC proxies, from regaining influence in the state. They argued that a return of Aregbesola would harm the economy, undermine workers’ and retirees’ welfare, and reverse gains made under the current administration.
The pensioners cited multiple grievances from Aregbesola’s tenure, including delayed payment of salaries and pensions. “Workers and retirees were paid half salary and pension for 32 months under his administration, causing lasting financial hardship,” the forum stated.
They also accused Aregbesola of misappropriating public funds. Among the alleged irregularities:
Illegal withdrawal of N70 billion contributed under the administration of Prince Olagunsoye Oyinlola, supposedly for investment in bonds, but which the forum claims was mismanaged.
Diversion of N34.988 billion bailout funds from the Central Bank of Nigeria and unaccounted-for portions of the Paris Club refunds, totaling N20.814 billion.
Misappropriation of budget support funds of N14.4 billion and relief funds of N13.6 billion.
The pensioners further criticized educational policies under Aregbesola, including the introduction of the Opon Imo (Tablet of Knowledge) program, which they described as a scam. They claimed the program, contracted to Aregbesola’s son at the cost of N1 billion, failed to deliver the promised devices to schools.
They also condemned the introduction of a universal school uniform through Omoluabi Garment Industry, led by Aregbesola’s wife, and the reclassification of schools into Elementary, Middle, and High Schools. The forum said these policies contributed to student unrest and poor academic performance.
Infrastructure projects under Aregbesola were also criticized. The pensioners alleged that major road works and stadium projects, including the reconstruction of Osogbo–Ila Odo Road and Osogbo Township Stadium, were abandoned despite full payment of billions in contract sums.
While highlighting the failures of Aregbesola’s administration, the pensioners commended current Governor Ademola Adeleke for prioritizing retirees’ welfare. They praised Adeleke for quarterly payment of half-salary pension arrears and urged the governor to increase efforts to pay the arrears monthly. They also requested that remaining gratuities be paid in bulk on a first-come, first-served basis, enabling retirees to enjoy their benefits while still alive.
“The people of Osun cannot afford a return to retrogression,” the forum said, calling on voters to reject Aregbesola and support leadership that safeguards the welfare of workers and retirees.