Adeleke Releases ₦204m Death Benefits to Workers’ Families

Governor Ademola Adeleke has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of workers and pensioners in Osun State by approving the release of more than ₦204 million in death benefits to families of civil servants who died while still in active service.

The announcement was made during a cheque presentation ceremony held in Osogbo, where the Head of Service, Elder Ayanleye Aina, represented the governor.

According to official records, a total of ₦204,275,209.80 was approved for distribution. Of the amount, ₦125.6 million will be paid to beneficiaries of deceased state government employees, while ₦78.6 million is designated for families of workers at the local government level.

Speaking through the Head of Service, Governor Adeleke stated that his administration remains committed to fulfilling promises made to workers despite prevailing financial challenges. He noted that workers’ welfare and retirees’ well-being remain central pillars of his administration’s Five-Point Action Plan.

The governor recalled that some critics had initially dismissed the policy agenda as unrealistic, but maintained that his government has continued to deliver on its commitments.

“Today, to the glory of God, we have made significant progress as a talk-and-do administration,” Adeleke said.

The governor also revealed that since assuming office in 2023, his administration has paid a total of ₦882.7 million in death benefits to 184 beneficiaries across the state public service.

Beyond the death benefits, the administration has also cleared long-standing insurance claims under the Personal Accident Insurance Scheme. According to Adeleke, the government has approved and disbursed ₦1.86 billion to settle outstanding claims involving 563 beneficiaries.

The payments cover entitlements accumulated between September 2013 and August 2023, effectively ending years of delays that left many affected families waiting for compensation.

Adeleke explained that the Group Life Assurance Policy under the Contributory Pension Scheme was created to provide financial protection for families of workers who die in active service. He criticized previous administrations for failing to meet these obligations, describing the neglect of such claims as unfair to grieving families.

The governor also alleged that irregularities in the payment of insurance premiums under past administrations contributed to the backlog of unpaid claims, making it difficult for beneficiaries to access their entitlements.

He assured workers and pensioners that his administration would continue to prioritize their welfare and ensure prompt payment of legitimate benefits. According to him, the government’s efforts are aimed not only at providing financial relief but also at restoring confidence in public institutions and demonstrating compassion for citizens who have dedicated their lives to public service.

The latest disbursement is being viewed as part of the administration’s broader effort to strengthen social welfare protections for public servants and their families. For many beneficiaries, the payments represent both financial support and recognition of the sacrifices made by their loved ones in service to Osun State.

As economic pressures continue to affect states across Nigeria, Adeleke’s worker-focused policies remain a defining feature of his administration, reinforcing his commitment to protecting the rights and dignity of workers and retirees.