The Ogun State Government has declared Friday, November 15, 2024, a work-free day for all civil servants in the state.
This decision was made to allow public sector workers to fully participate in the local government elections scheduled for Saturday, November 16, 2024, across all 20 local government areas and 237 wards in Ogun State.
The announcement was made in a circular issued on Thursday by the state’s Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya, and was subsequently confirmed by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Emmanuel Ojo.
In the statement, it was explained that the work-free day would enable civil servants to travel to their respective local government areas to cast their votes, ensuring active participation in the electoral process. The initiative reflects Governor Dapo Abiodun’s commitment to promoting civic engagement and strengthening democracy in Ogun State.
The circular read: “The work-free day is designed to allow civil servants the opportunity to participate actively in the local government elections without hindrance. This is in line with Governor Abiodun’s efforts to encourage widespread participation in the democratic process.”
The move is also part of the state’s ongoing efforts to ensure that all citizens, including public servants, have the opportunity to exercise their voting rights without the distraction of work commitments.
The statement further emphasized the governor’s focus on ensuring inclusivity and participatory democracy, urging all civil and public servants to comply with the directive. Permanent Secretaries and heads of government agencies have also been instructed to ensure that the day is observed across the state.