A Kogi State civil servant, Mr. Bode Olatunde, has called upon Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo to urgently settle delayed leave bonuses, promotion arrears, and unpaid salary increments, while also initiating a low-cost housing program for state employees. Olatunde made this plea through an open letter, highlighting the severe economic strains and inflation affecting public sector workers and their dependents in the state.
According to the correspondence, escalating expenses for food items, commuting, housing rent, schooling, and medical services have heightened the necessity for the immediate clearance of pending workers' benefits. Olatunde pointed out that past disbursements of leave grants by the Kogi State Government served as vital financial cushions, helping households manage domestic responsibilities, settle tuition fees, and handle other basic needs.
He requested the governor to mandate relevant government ministries, departments, and agencies to audit pending financial obligations and disburse owed funds to qualified personnel. Furthermore, he appealed for the formal rollout of pending career promotions and the corresponding financial adjustments.
Addressing accommodation difficulties, particularly within the state capital of Lokoja, Olatunde noted that surging property rentals consume a large portion of monthly employee earnings. He suggested the development of affordable residential communities for government personnel, featuring manageable payment structures, mortgage options, and manageable payroll deductions. Such a project, he argued, would facilitate homeownership, guarantee housing stability, and elevate workforce efficiency.
While commending the developmental strides of the Ododo administration across multiple sectors, Olatunde clarified that his message was a constructive appeal for staff welfare rather than an attack on the government. He emphasized that teachers, medical personnel, and administrative staff form the backbone of public administration and service delivery.
Concluding his appeal, Olatunde urged the state leadership to heed the financial struggles of public employees and implement supportive measures. He expressed confidence that prompt administrative action would alleviate the hardships currently experienced by numerous families across the state.