“I have always held the view that a worker that is neglected or poorly treated is a threat to economic prosperity of a state, and argued that one of the ways to stimulate a depressed economy is to pay salaries and allowances as well as pay contractors to inject funds into the economy” – Alex Otti, Governor-elect, Abia State
The 2023 gubernatorial election that gave victory to LP Dr. Alex Otti had commenced with a campaign slogan that reads; “Weep not Abians, Help is on the Way”
Help certainly came to the citizens and residents of Abia state on the 18th March 2023 when they defied all odds to cast their vote and stood by it until the people’s choice, Dr. Alex Otti was declared ‘Governor-Elect’ especially the workers who have in all circumstances continued to uphold the economic cycle of the state without letting their oars down despite all the harsh treatment and neglect of the outgoing PDP led government of Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu,
Today, May Day, that slogan has changed to; “Help is Here, at Last!” as the Governor-elect took time out to congratulate the organised labour led by the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and every other representative of Abia state workforce.
In his congratulatory message to Abia state workers, Dr. Alex Otti said’
“I particularly salute our workers in the State and Local Government civil services, who, despite being owed many months of salary arrears, have ensured that the wheels of public service continue to spin. I’m aware as usual, that most of you will be celebrating this year’s May Day on empty stomachs as a result of non-payment of salaries. Be assured that such sad experience will become a thing of the past going forward. I commend your resilience, long suffering and uncommon dedication to duty in the service of our dear State.
It will be recalled that during the campaign, the Governor-elect had reiterated on his resolve to make sure that outstanding salaries and arrears owed pensioners of the state running into hundreds of billions will be paid before the end of December 2023.
Many civil servants who has been accustomed to the negligence and deception of past administration especially in the areas of workers welfare, have continued to find it difficult to believe that such feat can be achieved. Nevertheless, as a seasoned administrator and investment banker, Dr. Alex Otti had assured the workers never to worry how the money will come about.
“I have always held the view that a worker that is neglected or poorly treated is a threat to economic prosperity of a state, and argued that one of the ways to stimulate a depressed economy is to pay salaries and allowances as well as pay contractors to inject funds into the economy, which will in turn lead to increased demand for goods and services, higher productivity and job creation. I’m convinced that God saw through our hearts, hence, He crowned our efforts with that nationally celebrated historic victory that has given us the platform to serve you.” Said Dr. Alex Otti
The emergence of Labour Party into the mainstream with the help of personalities like Mr. Peter Obi and Dr. Alex Otti has enlivened the spirit of the workers union whom by now were getting sucked up into the hopelessness and poor economic performance of the outgoing APC and PDP government in the state.
Workers play a crucial role in the development and progress of any society, and it is essential to recognize and appreciate their efforts.
Workers in the state have faced numerous challenges, including being forced into endless debts by the state government and poor working conditions.
Despite these challenges, they continue to show resilience and dedication to their jobs as most patriotic citizens of the state, this is commendable, therefore workers should be reciprocated as celebrating and appreciating their efforts can boost their morale and motivate them to be more productive.
As the outgoing government prepares to take their final bow few weeks from today, it is crucial for leaders to prioritize the welfare of workers by providing them with good working conditions, adequate remuneration, and job security.
By doing so, they can create a conducive work environment that will motivate workers to give their best and contribute to the growth and development of the society.
Njoku SaintJerry A is the Abia State Publicity secretary of Labour Party
