ABEOKUTA, Nigeria — The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the State Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) of directing public secondary school teachers to attend a political meeting involving the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Solomon Olamilekan Adeola, popularly known as Yayi.
The opposition party alleged that teachers were mobilised through official channels to participate in the meeting, describing the action as an abuse of public institutions and a violation of the principle of political neutrality expected of civil servants.
According to the PDP, government agencies should not be involved in partisan politics or compel public workers to attend political events. The party argued that teachers employed by the state should be allowed to carry out their professional duties without political interference or pressure.
The party claimed that the alleged directive, if confirmed, could undermine confidence in the state education system and create the impression that public institutions are being used to advance the interests of a political party. It called on the Ogun State Government to investigate the matter and ensure that civil servants are protected from political influence.
The PDP further urged teachers across the state to remain professional and avoid allowing politics to interfere with their responsibilities. It maintained that educational institutions should remain focused on delivering quality education rather than becoming involved in electioneering activities.
In response, the Ogun State Teaching Service Commission denied the allegation, insisting that it did not direct teachers to attend any political meeting. TESCOM described the claim as false, misleading and without any factual basis.
The Commission stated that it remains a professional government agency responsible for managing public secondary school teachers and improving educational standards across the state. It stressed that it has not authorised any official to mobilise teachers for political activities.
TESCOM also advised members of the public to disregard the allegations, explaining that all official communications issued by the Commission relate strictly to administrative and educational matters. It reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining neutrality and professionalism in the discharge of its responsibilities.
Political observers say the disagreement comes as political campaigns intensify ahead of the Ogun State governorship election. With parties increasing their activities across the state, accusations and counter-accusations have become more frequent as political actors seek to win public support.
Analysts have stressed the importance of keeping public institutions free from partisan politics, noting that civil servants are expected to serve the government and the public without political bias. They said preserving the neutrality of government agencies is essential for maintaining public confidence in democratic institutions.
Observers have also urged political parties to focus on issue-based campaigns instead of engaging in allegations that could heighten political tension. They called on all stakeholders to promote peaceful campaigns and respect the rights of public servants throughout the election period.
As preparations for the governorship election continue, attention is expected to remain on the conduct of political parties, government agencies and public officials. Election stakeholders have appealed for calm and urged all parties to comply with electoral laws while ensuring that public institutions are not drawn into partisan political contests.
