Figures cited by The Nation show a growing controversy in Osun State, where the opposition APC has accused Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration of N13.7 billion in payroll fraud. The allegations involve the inclusion of “ghost workers” and the diversion of funds meant for local government staff.
The Osun State government has vehemently denied the claims, asserting that the audit records being cited by the APC predated the current administration’s tenure. The PDP-led government described the accusations as “malicious fabrications” designed to distract the public from the state’s recent infrastructure achievements.
The Guardian and Punch reported on the brewing scandal. The Guardian noted that “the University of Osun (UNIOSUN) has threatened legal action over the audit report,” while Punch quoted a government spokesperson: “This is a classic case of the opposition grasping at straws to remain relevant.”
Echotitbits take: Payroll fraud is a recurring ghost in Nigerian state administration. Whether the figures are accurate or not, the demand for a transparent, third-party audit is growing. Watch for how the anti-graft agencies (EFCC/ICPC) respond to these petitions.
Source: Daily Post – https://dailypost.ng/2026/02/20/osun-apc-state-govt-clash-over-alleged-n13-7bn-payroll-fraud/, March 4, 2026
Photo credit: Daily Post
