The Osun State Government has announced the recovery of ₦53,089,683.52 in overpayments that would have been disbursed to retirees in 2023. This revelation was made on Monday at the Annual Audit Forum held in Ede, where the Auditor-General, Kolapo Idris, presented a comprehensive report detailing the findings.
The overpayments, spanning the period from January 1 to December 31, 2023, were identified through meticulous audits conducted by the Auditor-General’s office. Of the 437 pension files reviewed, 300 were cleared without issues, while 137 files flagged various discrepancies that led to financial recoveries.
BREAKDOWN OF RECOVERED FUNDS:
- Premature Promotions: ₦9,899,515.94
- Insufficient Notice of Retirement and Salary Overpayments: ₦19,905,615.20
- Break in Service: ₦2,388,075.17
- Overstayed Service: ₦20,896,477.51
The audit interventions ensured that the recovered funds were returned to the state treasury, avoiding financial mismanagement.
Kolapo Idris emphasized that the audits were conducted under his directive, adhering to Section 125(2) of the 1999 Constitution. The Auditor-General assured attendees that the financial statements accurately reflected Osun State’s financial activities for the year, including revenue, expenditures, assets, liabilities, and budgetary comparisons.
“The recovery of these funds underscores the commitment of the state to fiscal responsibility and accountability. We remain dedicated to ensuring that public funds are used for the benefit of all citizens,” Idris stated.
The Head of Service, Mr. Ayanleye Aina, lauded Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration for its transparency in financial governance. “Governor Adeleke has demonstrated exceptional integrity in managing the state’s finances. The detailed audit report presented today is a testament to his administration’s commitment to transparency,” Aina said.
The forum was attended by key stakeholders, including the chairman of the Osun State House of Assembly Public Accounts Committee, Bamidele Lawal, civil society organizations, and labor leaders. It provided an open platform for the scrutiny of the state’s financial records, further bolstering public trust in the government.
This initiative highlights the Osun State Government’s proactive approach to financial management and its commitment to transparency, serving as a model for other states in Nigeria to emulate.