Daud Olatunji
In a startling revelation, an investigation by PLATFORM TIMES has unveiled that Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State is set to allocate a whopping N1 billion from the state treasury to cover the salaries of commissioners, Special Advisers, Special Assistants, and some consultants over the course of four years.
This substantial financial commitment does not even account for the additional allowances that accompany these high-ranking positions.
The allowances in question encompass a spectrum of benefits, including accommodations, furniture, estacodes, medical coverage, severance gratuity, leave, and motor vehicle loans.
They are either based on applications, disbursed annually, or granted upon the successful completion of their respective tenures.
As per the guidelines laid out by the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), key officials such as the Secretary to the State Government, the Chief of Staff to the governor, Commissioners, Special Advisers, and other state-level authorities will each receive a monthly salary of N406,739, equating to an annual income of N4,880,871.
The investigation also exposed that Special Advisers are set to earn N380,242 monthly, resulting in an annual income of N4,562,902.
Governor Abiodun recently inaugurated a total of 20 Commissioners and 22 Special Advisers, amounting to 42 high-ranking officers in his administration.
Barring any alterations in these plans, these state executive cabinet members are anticipated to serve alongside the governor for a four-year tenure.
PLATFORM TIMES‘ analysis indicates that Governor Abiodun will require nearly N200 million to cover the salaries of these 42 executive members alone.
For the 20 Commissioners, their monthly remuneration will accumulate to N8.1 million, with an annual total of N97,617,360. Over the course of four years, this would result in the state disbursing N390,469,440.
Similarly, the 22 Special Advisers are expected to receive a combined monthly salary of N8.4 million, translating to an annual sum of N100,383,888. Over the four-year term, the state will allocate N401,535,552 to their salaries.
In total, the state’s expenditure for the 42 Commissioners (excluding the SSG, CoS, and undisclosed aides) over four years would amount to a staggering N792,004,992.
Governor Abiodun’s commitment to compensating his top officials and aides has drawn significant attention and raised questions about the state’s financial priorities.
This investigation reveals the substantial financial burden associated with these positions and underscores the need for a close examination of the state’s fiscal management.
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