The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Abia State, Dr. Kelechi Anosike, has accused Governor Alex Otti of neglecting workers in the state. Anosike made the allegations while addressing journalists in Abuja on September 19, 2026. He claimed that despite increased federal allocations following the removal of the fuel subsidy, workers in Abia have not experienced improved working conditions or better welfare. Anosike argued that the state's resources are sufficient to improve workers' salaries and welfare.
Anosike expressed dissatisfaction with the implementation of the N70,000 national minimum wage in Abia, alleging that some workers received only N7,000 or N10,000 increases. He stated that Abia workers are among the most disadvantaged in Nigeria. The PDP candidate promised to introduce a N90,000 minimum wage if elected governor in the 2027 election. Anosike claimed that the state has enough revenue to sustain the proposed wage, citing monthly allocations to local government areas.
According to Anosike, each of Abia's 17 local government areas receives at least N500 million monthly, amounting to roughly N6 billion annually per council. He estimated that the local councils collectively receive over N100 billion annually. Anosike stated that the state government received more than N600 billion within three years, while local councils received over N300 billion during the same period. He claimed that the state has received over N1 trillion in total.
Anosike emphasized that improved wages should be accompanied by health insurance and housing support to reduce financial pressure on workers and their families. He promised to provide health insurance and housing support for workers if elected. Anosike stated that his administration would treat workers' welfare as a comprehensive package covering salaries, healthcare, housing, and education for their children.
The PDP candidate addressed the reported dismissal of about 15,000 workers under the present administration. Anosike pledged to constitute an independent committee to review the circumstances surrounding each case if elected. The committee would determine when the workers were dismissed, their circumstances at the time, and whether they remained eligible for active service.
Anosike acknowledged that some affected workers could have attained the statutory retirement age of 60 or completed 35 years of service by the time a new administration assumes office. He stated that such workers would not necessarily be reinstated but could be considered for salary arrears for the period they had been out of work. Anosike promised not to sack public servants for political reasons.
Anosike's administration would prioritize continuity, fairness, and professionalism in the public service if elected. He argued that government employment should be separated from partisan politics. Anosike stated that his administration would not engage in political witch-hunting or downsize public service for political reasons.
Key points
- Dr. Kelechi Anosike accuses Governor Alex Otti of neglecting Abia workers despite increased revenue
- Anosike promises to introduce a N90,000 minimum wage and provide health insurance and housing support for workers
- Anosike pledges to review the dismissal of 15,000 workers and provide salary arrears where necessary
