The Kebbi State Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has advised its members to ignore promises made by former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, on Independence Day. Malami, who is the flag bearer of the Action Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 governorship election, promised to pay N110,000 monthly wages to teachers if elected.
Comrade Muritala Usman, the State NLC Chairman, addressed a press conference in Birnin-Kebbi, expressing concerns over Malami's promises. Usman argued that Malami, after leaving office, established private primary and secondary schools, and questioned how many of his teachers are paid N110,000 monthly. He also pointed out that Malami's radio station, Rayan Radio, ceased operations due to inability to pay staff salaries.
The NLC chairman also faulted Malami's claim that the challenge facing the NLC in the state is the lack of a befitting secretariat, noting that the NLC already has a secretariat in Kebbi State. Usman, flanked by his Deputy, Comrade Kilani Abdulwaheed, and other officials, called on state workers not to be swayed by Malami's empty promises.
Comrade Usman drew attention to the fact that Governor Nasiru Idris was among the first governors in the country to offer a wage above the N70,000 minimum wage, paying N75,000 to state workers. He also highlighted the governor's efforts in transportation, including the purchase of 50 buses to ease transportation across the 21 LGAs in the state.
The union leader pointed out that Governor Idris, a unionist and union leader, abolished the casual workers syndrome in the state civil and public services by giving directives that such workers should be given permanent appointments. He also noted that the governor elongated the working years of teachers, medical workers, and veterinary workers from 60 to 65 years of retirement age, and 35 to 40 service years.
The NLC leaders enjoined the people of Kebbi State to think deeply and not allow opposition figures to manipulate them, noting that the present administration in Kebbi State is doing what previous administrations have not done. They urged workers to consider the governor's track record before making decisions.
The union leaders' comments come as the 2027 governorship election approaches, with various candidates vying for the position. The Kebbi State NLC's stance on Malami's promises is a significant development in the lead-up to the election, highlighting the concerns of workers in the state.
Key points
- The Kebbi State NLC has urged its members to ignore promises made by Abubakar Malami.
- Malami promised to pay N110,000 monthly wages to teachers if elected governor.
- The NLC highlighted Governor Nasiru Idris's efforts in improving workers' welfare, including paying above the minimum wage and providing buses for transportation.
