Oyebanji's N2bn Gratuity Payment Strengthens Re-election Bid

Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji has approved a N2 billion gratuity payment, significantly enhancing his re-election bid. This payment, distributed to retirees from both state and local government, is part of a broader initiative to address long-standing welfare challenges related to pensions.

Since assuming office in October 2022, Oyebanji has disbursed a total of N19 billion in gratuities, with N11.7 billion allocated to state workers and N7.3 billion to local government retirees. The latest disbursement covers gratuities for retirees from 2017 and 2014, respectively.

Oyebanji emphasized his administration's commitment to improving the welfare of retirees, ensuring regular pension payments, and reducing backlog issues. Labor leaders, including Nigeria Labour Congress Ekiti State Chairman Kolapo Olatunde and Trade Union Congress counterpart Omotola Farotimi, have publicly endorsed Oyebanji's re-election, commending his efforts to eliminate delays in salary and pension payments.

The governor's administration has also introduced measures such as minimum wage adjustments and support for pensioners to enhance their quality of life.