— Accuses Lawmaker of Exploitation
A political aide to Senator Olajide Ipinsagba, representing Ondo North Senatorial District, has publicly resigned, condemning the meager N20,000 monthly salary paid to him — a figure he says is insulting against the backdrop of the new N70,000 national minimum wage.
Tunbosun Awe, appointed as ward liaison officer for Isowopo Ward II in Akoko North East Local Government Area, made his resignation known through a letter released in Akure, the state capital.
Awe described the remuneration as “a far cry from the current economic reality and the new national minimum wage of N70,000.”
In his letter, Awe lamented:
“This is sequel to the N20,000 monthly salary payment to me, which is against the present economic realities and a far cry from the national minimum wage of N70,000.”
Despite repeated efforts to seek a raise, Awe claims the senator refused to meet him:
“An audience had been sought with you at different intervals of the need to increase the pay, all to no avail.”
He also referenced their longstanding relationship, expressing dismay that his pay had remained stagnant:
“Especially, when it is fully established with you that N20,000 is the same amount you offered me as your personal assistant in 2007.”
“Destiny brought us together in 2006, when your Senatorial bid was birthed with the caption, Concept 2007, while I served as the secretary of your campaign structure in Ondo North Senatorial District.”
Awe recalled his earlier service as a Personal Assistant during the senator’s tenure under the late Governor Olusegun Agagu, underscoring the loyalty and years of service that apparently counted for little in salary negotiations.
Despite his resignation, Awe expressed gratitude for the opportunity:
“I appreciate the senator for the opportunity to serve over the years.”
Efforts to reach Senator Ipinsagba’s spokesman, Yinka Ajagunna, for comment were unsuccessful.
Meanwhile, Bankole Akerele, a loyalist of the senator, hit back at the departing aide in strong terms:
“Awe ought to have showed gratitude and respect to his former boss instead of the embarrassment.”
He further alleged:
“He has shifted his loyalty to another political leaders hence his resignation.”
This episode exposes deep fissures in the political camp of Senator Ipinsagba as aides grow increasingly restless over pay and recognition.
