Organised labour groups in Osun State have publicly supported Governor Ademola Adeleke following accusations that a recent N10,000 disbursement to public sector staff was a tactic to influence votes for the Peoples Democratic Party in the upcoming August 15 election. Representatives from the Nigeria Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress, and the Joint Negotiation Council clarified that the funds were provided as a requested relief measure to combat economic challenges.
Dr. Christopher Arapasopo, the NLC Chairman, explained that labour leadership submitted a formal request to the governor in April seeking financial support for both active employees and retirees. While the initial proposal was for N20,000, negotiations led to an agreement on the N10,000 payment due to current budgetary limitations. Arapasopo firmly rejected claims of political bribery, asserting that the payment was a direct response to their demands and not an attempt to sway the electorate.
Addressing the broader political climate, JNC Chairman Adediran Olalekan encouraged workers to exercise their voting rights without fear. He urged employees to visit their polling stations with their Permanent Voter Cards and select whichever candidate they prefer. Furthermore, Olalekan requested that President Bola Tinubu instruct security services to maintain neutrality and protect the integrity of the voting process.
