REMOTE WORK, DIGITAL SURVEILLANCE, AND EMPLOYEE AUTONOMY: EXAMINING THE MODERATING ROLE OF TRUST IN LEADERSHIP IN SOUTHWEST NIGERIAN SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS

Zaccheaus Olufunminiyi Olonade; Olubunmi Comfort Ayodele-Akeroro; Abosede Mayowa  Adeleke

doi:10.37075/JOMSA.2026.1.09

Authors

Zaccheaus Olufunminiyi Olonade Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria https://orcid.org/0000-0002-8815-5677
Olubunmi Comfort Ayodele-Akeroro Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria https://orcid.org/0009-0002-7185-4436
Abosede Mayowa Adeleke Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria https://orcid.org/0009-0002-6308-5083

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37075/JOMSA.2026.1.09%20

Keywords:

remote work, digital surveillance, employee autonomy, service organizations

Abstract

This study investigates the interplay between remote work, digital surveillance, and employee autonomy, with a focus on the moderating role of trust in leadership within service organizations in Osun State, Nigeria. Drawing upon Social Exchange Theory and Self-Determination Theory, the research explores how digital surveillance practices influence employees’ perceived autonomy and how trust in leadership mitigates potential negative effects. The study employed a quantitative research design, with data collected through a structured questionnaire administered to 120 employees from selected Financial Technology (FinTech) organizations in Southwest Nigeria. Findings indicate that digital surveillance negatively affects employee autonomy, while trust in leadership significantly moderates this relationship. The study contributes to leadership and human resource management literature by highlighting the importance of trust in fostering employee well-being and performance in digitally monitored remote environments.

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Author Biography

Zaccheaus Olufunminiyi Olonade, Osun State University, Osogbo, Nigeria

Head of Department, Department of Employment Relations and Human Resource Management, Faculty of Management Sciences, Osun State University, Osogbo. Nigeria

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