On the occasion of the 2023 Workers’ Day celebration, the newly elected governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, congratulated members of the Nigerian Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress.
In a statement he signed, Otti informed the employees that, starting on May 29, 2023, their regrettable experience of having unpaid salary arrears will be history.
He complimented the employees of the State and Local Government civil services for keeping the government running despite being due many months’ worth of back pay.
The incoming governor said that he addressed the state’s civil and public servant as “fellow Abia workers” because Abia electorates had hired him to be part of her workers through their votes on March 18, 2023.
The statement read, “I bring you special greetings on this auspicious occasion of the 2023 Workers’ Day Celebration, otherwise known as May Day, with the theme: ‘Workers’ Right and Socio-Economic Justice’.
“I consciously chose to address you as ‘fellow workers’ because, on Saturday, March 18, 2023, you joined thousands of passionate, enthusiastic and patriotic Abia voters to hire me as your employee. That noble and humbling decision has placed an additional burden of service on my shoulders.
“On behalf of the good people of Abia state, I wish to sincerely congratulate the organised Labour led by the Nigerian Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress, and other such bodies on this year’s celebration.
“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 a 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.
“A year ago, I did the usual ritual of felicitation to you all, and I did reassure you that sooner than later, the ruinous era of gloom and sobriety would give way for a new dawn of blessings and abundance. Today, by the mercy of the Almighty God, our prayer, battle cry and admonition, ‘Weep No More, Help is on the Way’, has been answered and we can assuredly declare, help is here!
He added that his administration will move speedily, vigorously and decisively in the task of rebuilding the state at all levels.
