By Maria Famakinwa & Adedotun Ajayi

The Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria, Ondo State Council, has thrown its weight behind the incumbent Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, endorsing him for continuity in office beyond 2025.

This significant endorsement was announced during the Ondo State TUC rally in support of the Governor held on Tuesday, at the TUC State Secretariat in Akure.

Addressing labour leaders at the event, State Chairman of TUC, Comrade Clement Fatuase, stressed the unanimous decision reached by both past and present leaders of the Congress’ 23 active affiliate unions.

“In a meeting held on Thursday, 31st October 2024, the activities of the present administration were critically analysed. Mr Governor was rated excellent, compelling the Congress to reciprocate the gesture for his dedication to workers’ welfare,” Fatuase remarked.

Enumerating Governor Aiyedatiwa’s achievements, he noted the regular and prompt payment of salaries, the disbursement of the 2024 leave bonus, and the payment of ₦35,000 wage award, an initiative that places Ondo State among the leading states in the Southwest, alongside Lagos.

Additionally, he highlighted the near-completion recruitment drive for teachers in primary and secondary schools across the state’s 18 local government areas, the appointment of permanent secretaries and tutor generals, and the recruitment of 1,000 health officials.

Fatuase also praised the approval of a new minimum wage of ₦73,000 and the sponsorship of over 100 workers to the Southwest Labour Summit in Ibadan.

While commending Governor Aiyedatiwa’s achievements, the TUC chairman, Comrade Clement Fatuase, presented several demands for further improvements.

He urged the full implementation of the housing scheme with affordable land allocations for civil servants. On pensions, he called for accessible individual accounts managed by Pension Fund Administrators and the creation of a functional pension board.

He also emphasised the need for dedicated land to support civil servants interested in agriculture and the provision of cash crop seedlings. Fatuase requested that the 2025 budget include funds to equip technical college workshops and called for the appointment of more permanent secretaries and tutors general.

Additionally, he raised concerns about labour interference, urging the governor to protect TUC-affiliated unions from disruptions and requesting the establishment of more motor parks for RTEAN’s effective operations.

Fatuase assured the state government of unwavering support from the TUC, expressing optimism for continued collaboration and development.

In response, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa expressed his gratitude to the Trade Union Congress for maintaining a harmonious relationship with his administration.

He commended the union for recognising the strides his government has made in the few months since assuming office, emphasising that these achievements were driven by a commitment to the people of Ondo State.

Addressing the issue of salary payments, Aiyedatiwa stated that the regular and timely disbursement of workers’ wages is not a favour but a fundamental right.

“Workers who have diligently carried out their duties deserve to be paid. It is an obligation, not a privilege,” he affirmed.

He also highlighted the necessity of the wage award, explaining that it is the government’s responsibility to alleviate the economic hardships faced by citizens, particularly in challenging times.

The governor pledged his administration’s continued support for training and capacity building to ensure that public servants deliver efficient and effective services.

He expressed appreciation for the union’s unified call for continuity, assuring them of his unwavering commitment to prioritising workers’ welfare and addressing their needs comprehensively.

“Your welfare will remain a top priority, and we will always strive to support you in every way possible,” Aiyedatiwa added.