Ogun Workers Defy Government, Shut Down State Over Unpaid Pensions and Wage Demands

Hospitals, schools, and other government institutions across Ogun State remain shut as the indefinite strike by labour unions enters its seventh day. The strike, driven by grievances over unpaid contributory pension funds and related irregularities, has left critical services—including healthcare and education—crippled.

During a visit to the State Hospital in Abeokuta, our correspondent found the facility deserted, with no medical staff in sight and patients unattended. A similar situation was observed at the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOSUTH) in Sagamu, where patients were being turned away and referred elsewhere. “They are not attending to patients; they referred me to another hospital,” one patient lamented.

The labour unions accuse successive state administrations of neglecting their obligations under the Contributory Pension Scheme, with remittances reportedly unpaid for 17 years, resulting in an N82 billion shortfall. Government schools across the state also remained closed, disrupting third-term examinations which were scheduled to start last week.

Despite multiple discussions with Governor Dapo Abiodun, workers have resolved to continue the strike until all demands are met. The governor had proposed a phased payment plan starting in July 2025 and running until 2035, but labour leaders rejected the proposal, calling it unsatisfactory.

NLC State Chairman, Hameed-Benco Ademola, reiterated that the strike is not aimed at sabotaging the state’s economy but is a legitimate push for justice. He emphasized the workers’ demands, which include a review of the 2024 minimum wage, payment of eight years’ worth of leave allowances, pension adjustments, and the promotion of staff for 2023 and 2024. Meanwhile, there are unconfirmed reports suggesting that both parties may be close to reaching a resolution.