Ondo Senator Aide Resigns Over Below Minimum Wage Salary

Tunbosun Awe, a longtime aide to Senator Olajide Ipinsagba of Ondo North Senatorial District, has resigned from his position, stating that the N20,000 he earned monthly was no longer sustainable in today’s harsh economy.

In a resignation letter made public on Wednesday, Awe said the pay was far below the new national minimum wage of N70,000 recently announced by the federal government. He described the salary as a clear mismatch with Nigeria’s current cost of living, especially amid rising food prices, transportation costs, and general inflation.

Awe served as a ward liaison officer in Isowopo Ward II, located in Akoko North East Local Government Area of Ondo State. His role involved maintaining grassroots connections and helping to coordinate activities at the local level.

According to him, several attempts to engage Senator Ipinsagba in a conversation about salary adjustment had failed. He explained that despite his loyalty and long service, there had been no sign of improvement or recognition for his efforts over the years.

Awe recalled that his working relationship with the senator began in 2006 when he was appointed secretary of the senator’s first campaign team. This was when Ipinsagba launched his senatorial ambition under the political structure known as “Concept 2007.” Awe added that he later served as the senator’s personal assistant in 2007, earning the same N20,000 salary.

He also highlighted how he supported Ipinsagba during his time as a Special Assistant on Industrialisation under the late Governor Olusegun Agagu’s administration, stressing that their shared political journey has spanned nearly two decades.

Despite his disappointment over the poor remuneration, Awe expressed gratitude to the senator for giving him the opportunity to serve. He said the decision to step down was difficult but necessary, as the financial strain had become unbearable.

The resignation has sparked conversations online and among political watchers, with many questioning how aides in public service, especially at the grassroots level, survive on such low wages. Some have called on lawmakers to ensure that their aides are paid living wages, especially given the rising costs of basic needs in Nigeria.

Senator Ipinsagba has yet to respond to the development or issue a statement regarding the claims made in Awe’s resignation letter. However, the situation may prompt a broader discussion about fair compensation for political aides and support staff in the country.

As the government pushes for implementation of the new national minimum wage, Awe’s story serves as a reminder of the challenges facing many low-paid workers, even within the corridors of power.