Obasanjo Presidential Library lays off staff, blames COVID-19

The Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library located in Abeokuta, Ogun state, has relieved some of its staff of their duties.

In a letter seen by TheCable and signed by Olanike Ogunleye, its head of human resources, administration and procurement, the library said the decision was necessary as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic which has taken a toll on businesses.

A member of staff of the library also confirmed the development to TheCable.

“As you are aware, the current COVID-19 pandemic has had a toll on all our business significantly. This has resulted in making some difficult business decisions,” the letter read.

“Due to this situation, we regret to inform you that your employment will be put on hold until further notice.

“This temporary cessation is effective from May 31, 2020, and until business picks up and you are recalled back to work, please note that you are not eligible for any payment during this period of cessation.

“You are to hand over all company properties in your possession to the human resource department, who shall do a confirmation of the exit clearance process before your final entitlements (if any) would be paid.”

The library was also reported to have owed staff salaries before the action.

The library, which sits on 32 hectares of land, boasts of two million books, artefacts relating to Obasanjo’s time in office as president of Nigeria, an open-air amphitheatre, a 1000-seater capacity auditorium, a hotel, an amusement park and a wildlife park.