…embarks on four-week working recess

By Josephine Oguntoyinbo

Following a recent protest by staff of the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO), over unpaid salary arrears, the Ondo State House of Assembly has set up an ad-hoc committee to investigate the matter.

The committee was constituted during a plenary session presided over by the Speaker of the House, Olamide Oladiji.

The panel was given a two-week deadline to conduct a thorough investigation and report its findings back to the House.

Just a few days ago, non-academic and senior staff of the institution, under the aegis of the Non-Academic Staff Union (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Polytechnics (SSANIP), embarked on an indefinite strike.

The aggrieved workers staged a peaceful protest within the polytechnic premises, demanding the payment of their outstanding salaries and the full implementation of the national minimum wage.

During the plenary, lawmakers expressed concern that RUGIPO appeared to be the only state-owned institution constantly plagued by salary issues, despite similar funding structures across other institutions.

To wade into the crisis, the House appointed Steven Abitogun, representing Akure South Constituency 2, as Chairman of the investigative committee to find lasting solutions.

Meanwhile, the State Assembly has embarked on a four-week working recess from tomorrow, April 11 to May 15, 2025, to enable lawmakers attend to pressing matters within their constituencies and observe the Easter celebration.

Announcing the development during the plenary, the Speaker, Olamide Oladiji, appreciated members for their continued support and cooperation since the commencement of the 10th Assembly.

He recalled that the House had earlier cut short its recess to attend to an urgent state assignment, the screening and confirmation of commissioner-nominees sent by the Governor.

“I want to sincerely thank you all for always prioritising your constitutional responsibilities, especially in representing the interests of your constituents,” the Speaker said.

Citing predictions by the national astronomical agency about an impending season of heavy rainfall across the country, the Speaker urged lawmakers to remain alert and responsive to the needs of their people.

He added that the recess would also provide members with the opportunity to reflect on the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ during the Easter period.

The four-week recess begins tomorrow.