The Osun State government, in a demonstration of fiscal responsibility and transparency, announced the recovery of over ₦53 million in potential overpayments to retirees. This significant sum, identified through meticulous audits conducted by the state’s Auditor-General, Kolapo Idris, represents funds that would have been erroneously disbursed to retirees due to various discrepancies in their pension files. The recovery underscores the importance of robust auditing processes in ensuring prudent management of public funds and preventing financial leakages. The detailed breakdown of the recovered amount provides further insight into the nature of the discrepancies discovered.
The audit, covering the entire year of 2023, involved a comprehensive review of 437 retiree pension files. Of these, 137 files were flagged for irregularities, leading to the recovery of the overpayments. The discrepancies ranged from premature promotions and insufficient notice of retirement, which resulted in the recovery of nearly ₦30 million, to breaks in service and overstayed service periods, accounting for an additional ₦23 million. The rigorous examination of each file highlights the commitment of the Auditor-General’s office to ensuring accuracy and accountability in pension disbursements. This proactive approach not only safeguards public resources but also reinforces the principle of fairness and equity in the administration of pension benefits.
The meticulous breakdown provided by the Auditor-General, Kolapo Idris, sheds light on the specific areas where overpayments were identified. A significant portion, ₦9,899,515.94, stemmed from premature promotions, where retirees potentially received benefits calculated on inflated salary scales before they were actually entitled to them. Another substantial amount, ₦19,905,615.20, was recovered as penalties for insufficient notice of retirement and overpayment of salaries, indicating a lack of adherence to established procedures. Furthermore, ₦2,388,075.17 was recovered from retirees with breaks in their service history, highlighting the importance of accurate record-keeping and verification of service continuity. Finally, ₦20,896,477.51 was recovered from retirees who overstayed their stipulated service periods, potentially drawing unearned benefits.
The audit process, conducted under the direction of the Auditor-General, was in full compliance with Section 125(2) of the 1999 Constitution, which mandates the auditing of government accounts. The comprehensive audit report encompassed a thorough examination of the state’s financial performance, financial position, net assets/equity, cash flow, and a comparison of budgeted versus actual expenditures, along with detailed explanatory notes. This comprehensive approach ensures a holistic understanding of the state’s financial health and promotes accountability in the management of public resources. The detailed report also facilitates informed decision-making and enhances public trust in the government’s financial management practices.
The public presentation of the audit findings at the annual Audit Forum in Ede, Osun State, served as a testament to the government’s commitment to transparency and open governance. The forum provided a platform for stakeholders, including the chairman of the Osun State House of Assembly Public Accounts Committee, civil society representatives, and labour leaders, to scrutinize the state’s financial records and engage in constructive dialogue. This participatory approach fosters greater accountability and strengthens public confidence in the government’s financial stewardship. The presence of diverse stakeholders ensures a comprehensive review of the audit findings and promotes informed public discourse on fiscal matters.
The commendation from the Osun State Head of Service, Mr. Ayanleye Aina, further reinforces the significance of the audit and the transparency demonstrated by Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration. Aina’s praise highlights the governor’s commitment to open financial practices and his willingness to subject the state’s finances to public scrutiny. This open approach not only fosters trust but also sets a positive precedent for future financial management in Osun State. The public acknowledgement of the government’s transparency by a senior official further strengthens the message of accountability and responsible governance.
