The Amalgamated Union of Public Corporations, Civil Service Technical and Recreational Services Employees has called on Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to urgently intervene in the lingering crisis at the Ondo State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission OSOPADEC. The union warned that continued instability within the agency could disrupt development projects meant to benefit oil producing communities in the state.
In a statement issued after an emergency meeting of its state council, AUPCTRE expressed concern over what it described as administrative confusion, unpaid entitlements, and strained relations between management and staff. According to the union, these issues have slowed down the execution of community development projects and affected workers morale.
OSOPADEC was established to channel development resources to oil bearing communities in Ondo State, similar to intervention agencies in other oil producing regions. However, labour representatives say internal disagreements and alleged leadership lapses have weakened the commission’s effectiveness.
AUPCTRE accused some officials of sidelining due process in decision making and failing to engage workers on matters affecting their welfare. The union also alleged delays in salary payments and statutory allowances, describing the situation as unacceptable for an agency funded through public resources.
The union urged Governor Aiyedatiwa to set up an independent panel to review the commission’s operations, finances, and administrative structure. It argued that only a transparent investigation and decisive reforms could restore confidence among workers and host communities.
Community leaders from oil producing areas have also reportedly raised concerns about stalled projects, including road rehabilitation, shoreline protection, and youth empowerment schemes. Many residents depend on OSOPADEC initiatives for basic infrastructure and economic support.
AUPCTRE warned that if the issues are not addressed promptly, it may be forced to mobilise workers for industrial action. The union maintained that its primary goal is not confrontation but the restoration of efficiency and accountability within the commission.
Political observers note that the situation presents a governance test for the Aiyedatiwa administration, which has pledged to prioritise development and stability in oil producing communities. Effective intervention could help prevent labour unrest and rebuild trust in the agency’s mandate.
As tensions persist, stakeholders are calling for dialogue, transparency, and strong leadership to ensure OSOPADEC fulfils its role in improving living conditions in Ondo’s oil bearing areas.
