Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved the constitution of a committee to review the implementation of the new minimum wage at the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO).

With the governor also clearing three months of outstanding salary arrears owed to the institution’s workforce, the decision stemmed from a series of engagements between the state government, the polytechnic’s management, and labour unions over the harmonisation of payment schedules for staff.

According to a statement issued by Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, the move was aimed at resolving recurring discrepancies in salary disbursements and ensuring full compliance with the national minimum wage framework.

The newly constituted committee is headed by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Olaolu Akindolire. Other members include Dr. Wunmi Ilawole, Olaleye Phillips, Mr. Asonja Festus, and Abiodun Ogunduboye.

“The committee’s terms of reference include liaising with the polytechnic’s management, staff unions, and relevant state agencies to audit payroll data, reconcile implementation gaps, and recommend a sustainable payment structure that aligns with both the new minimum wage and the institution’s financial realities.”

He further stressed that the clearing of the outstanding three months of salary arrears will provide immediate succour

to academic and non-academic staff who had faced delays in remuneration.

Speaking on the development, the Commissioner for Education, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, noted that resolving the salary issues was necessary to stabilise the institution and restore confidence among staff.

“Resolving the salary issues is necessary to stabilise the institution and restore confidence among academic and non-academic staff,” Ajibefun said.

The education commissioner maintained that the state government remained committed to ensuring that no worker is unfairly treated in the implementation of wage policies.

Meanwhile, Aiyedatiwa has confirmed the appointment of Dr Simeon Adegun as the substantive rector of the institution. Adegun had been holding the position in an acting capacity since October 2024.