Oyo Government Moves Against Gratuity Fraudsters, Sensitizes Pensioners Against Extortion
The Oyo State Government has vowed to clamp down on individuals extorting pensioners under the guise of facilitating gratuity payments, describing the practice as criminal and unnecessary.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Dotun Oyelade, disclosed this in a statement on Friday, following reports that some retirees are being coerced to pay between five and 10 per cent of their gratuities by syndicates posing as government officials to fast track payment.
Oyelade said the current administration has strengthened due diligence in the processing and payment of gratuities, surpassing efforts made by previous governments.
The commissioner then noted that the extortion scheme has existed for years, affecting unsuspecting pensioners across successive administrations.
Despite repeated warnings, Oyelade said some retirees still fall victim to the fraudulent schemes, stressing that the illegal practice affects not only state pensioners but also retirees from local government service.
He emphasized that there is no requirement for any back-door payment to process gratuities or pension entitlements, urging retirees to adhere strictly to the established monthly disbursement process.
He then called on pensioners to report any suspicious demands or activities to the appropriate authorities, assuring them that the government remains committed to transparency and the protection of retirees’ welfare.
Oyo Government Moves Against Gratuity Fraudsters, Sensitizes Pensioners Against Extortion
Byadmin
Jan 16, 2026