By Jubril Bada

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State has rebutted claims by the Concerned Public Servants (COPS) that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa misled civil servants regarding a promised minimum wage increase.

In a statement issued by the party’s State Director of Media and Publicity, Mr. Steve Otaloro, the APC dismissed COPS’ accusations as baseless, asserting that the announced N73,000 minimum wage is genuine and that arrangements for its implementation are underway.

Otaloro noted that Governor Aiyedatiwa has consistently prioritised workers’ welfare, settling backlogs of leave arrears, pensions, and gratuities even before declaring his candidacy in the upcoming governorship election.

He emphasised that the wage increase aims to ease the economic burden on workers and will be reviewed in line with the state’s financial capacity.

The APC statement highlighted the governor’s contributions, including the employment of 2,000 teachers in the past ten months, maintaining regular promotions and training for public servants, and providing over N2 billion in soft loans to traders and artisans.

Aiyedatiwa has also focused on programmes supporting vulnerable groups, youth, and women’s empowerment, further reinforcing his commitment to the state’s workforce.

Addressing potential political motives, Otaloro cautioned that, as the election period progresses, certain groups may seek to undermine Aiyedatiwa’s achievements.

“Governor Aiyedatiwa’s word is his bond,” he stated, confirming that the wage increase has commenced.

He urged the opposition to avoid involving civil servants in political attacks, emphasising that Aiyedatiwa remains committed to fulfilling his promises for the benefit of Ondo State’s public sector employees.