Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has restored 3,000 local government workers to the state payroll. The decision was made after a meeting with organised labour, comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), in Calabar. The meeting focused on issues affecting workers and pensioners.
The labour leaders had appealed to Governor Otu to reconsider the disengagement of the affected workers, citing that many had spent about two years in service and relied on their salaries for livelihood. Otu acknowledged the hardship the disengagement could impose on the workers and their families. He explained that the government's intervention aimed to correct irregularities and ensure fairness in employment.
Governor Otu emphasized the need for a public service with recruitment based on qualifications and transparent procedures. This, he said, would prevent practices that could create long-term problems for the system. The governor approved the return of 3,000 of the 4,000 affected workers to the payroll, providing relief to most of those under review.
In addition to restoring the workers, Otu directed that other issues raised by labour be subjected to further review. These issues include outstanding promotions, salary harmonisation, and the welfare of low-income workers and pensioners. He requested briefs and official documents from labour and directed government officials to examine existing records.
Governor Otu urged labour to continue partnering with his administration in rebuilding the state. He acknowledged the financial challenges facing the state, including inherited liabilities, but expressed commitment to improving internally generated revenue and settling outstanding obligations.
The restoration of the workers followed sustained engagement between the government and labour over the fate of the affected local government employees. This development is expected to bring relief to the workers and their families. The governor's administration is working to build an economy driven by productivity, investment, and sustainable opportunities.
The meeting between the governor and labour leaders demonstrated the government's commitment to addressing workers' concerns. Further decisions on outstanding matters will be made after reviewing relevant briefs and official documents. The governor's approval has provided a temporary reprieve for the affected workers.
Key points
- Governor Bassey Otu restored 3,000 local government workers to the Cross River State payroll.
- The decision was made after a meeting with organised labour to address workers' concerns.
- The governor also directed further review of outstanding promotions, salary harmonisation, and workers' welfare.
