- Era of salary delays, percentage payments are gone in Ondo, says Gov
- Approves leave bonus for civil servants, reassures on minimum wage
By Adedotun Ajayi
The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has declared that the era of part payment and percentage-based salary payments is over, assuring that such practices have become a thing of the past in the State.
The Governor stated this on Wednesday while addressing members of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) at the NULGE DAY ceremony held in Akure.
The union, at the event, unanimously endorsed Governor Aiyedatiwa for the 16 November gubernatorial election, while also honouring the Governor with an award as the Grand Patron.
Thanking the union for the endorsement and award, the Governor made a firm commitment to the welfare of workers in the State, reassuring them of his readiness to pay the new minimum wage of N73,000, which he recently approved.
“I understand that you all didn’t come out today just to make a show of numbers. You are here to express your solidarity with me, and I am deeply appreciative of that,” the Governor remarked, acknowledging the union’s backing.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also announced the approval of leave bonuses for mainstream civil servants in the State, pledging to redouble his efforts when elected.
In his welcome address, the State President of NULGE, Fredrick Akinrilola, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Aiyedatiwa for consistently addressing the concerns of the union and prioritising the welfare of its members.
“We have witnessed remarkable growth and progress under your leadership. You have always shown a genuine commitment to our issues, and this is why we, as a union, have unanimously decided to endorse you as our preferred candidate for the 16 November gubernatorial election,” he said.
Akinrilola emphasised that the union’s decision to back Governor Aiyedatiwa stems from his track record of improving their working conditions and ensuring that their voices are heard.
“Governor Aiyedatiwa has always been there for us, and we believe that with him, the future of local government employees in Ondo State is secure,” he concluded.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters, Bola Taiwo, praised the Governor for his selfless sacrifices towards the welfare of civil and public servants in the State.
The National President of NULGE, Comrade Hakeem Ambali, also endorsed Governor Aiyedatiwa, expressing his delight at the positive reports he had received regarding the Governor’s leadership.
In attendance were the Deputy Governor, Olayide Adelami; the Secretary to the State Government, Tayo Oluwatuyi; Chief of Staff, Segun Omojuwa; Commissioner for Information, Wale Akinlosotu; the national body of NULGE; APC chieftains; among others.