EXCLUSIVE: Questions trail Gov. Abiodun’s aide’s payroll status after alleged asylum claim in Canada

A quiet but potentially explosive controversy is unfolding in Ogun State following allegations that an aide to Governor Dapo Abiodun has reportedly denounced Nigeria in a bid to secure refugee protection in Canada while allegedly remaining on the state government’s payroll.

Sources within the Ogun State Civil Service claim that Emmanuel Ojo, said to be a Senior Special Assistant on New Media, is still listed as an executive staff member attached to the governor’s office despite allegedly relocating abroad.

The development has stirred debate within political circles and among members of the public, who describe it as a troubling twist in Nigeria’s growing “Japa” wave, the migration trend that has seen thousands of professionals and young Nigerians relocate to countries such as Canada, the United Kingdom and Australia in search of better opportunities.

Alleged Contradictions

Insiders familiar with the matter allege that Ojo may have presented claims portraying Nigeria negatively as part of a refugee application process. Refugee status applications typically require proof of a well-founded fear of persecution in the applicant’s home country.

A senior official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, questioned the optics of the situation.

“What is disturbing is the contradiction of someone still officially serving in government while allegedly telling foreign authorities that Nigeria is unsafe for them.”

As of press time, independent verification of the alleged refugee claim remains pending. Canadian immigration authorities do not publicly disclose details of asylum applications due to strict privacy laws.

Ethical and Administrative Questions

Public affairs analysts say that if the allegations are substantiated, the matter could raise serious ethical and administrative concerns for the Ogun State Government, particularly regarding payroll integrity and compliance with public service rules.

Questions are also being asked about whether the official formally disengaged from state employment before relocating. Failure to do so, analysts note, could amount to a conflict of interest or breach of civil service regulations.

Critics argue that the controversy reflects a broader national dilemma, the brain drain crisis that has seen even individuals close to political power seeking opportunities abroad.

Governor Abiodun’s administration has yet to issue an official statement on the allegations. When contacted, officials close to the government reportedly declined comment, stating they had not been formally briefed.

For now, the controversy remains largely within political and diaspora circles, but observers say the issue may demand clarification as public scrutiny intensifies.

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