The Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Ondo State yesterday declared support for Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa ahead of the November 16 governorship election in the state.
Addressing the labour leaders during the congress’ special rally in support of the Governor in Akure, state capital, the 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.
He said: “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.”
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 N35,000 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 Tutors-General and the recruitment of about 1000 health workers.
Fatuase also praised the governor’s approval of a new minimum wage of N73,000 and the sponsorship of over 100 workers to the Southwest Labour Summit in Ibadan.
While commending Governor Aiyedatiwa’s achievements, the TUC chairman, urged the full implementation of the housing scheme with affordable land allocations for civil servants and the need for dedicated land to support civil servants interested in agriculture.
In response, Governor Aiyedatiwa expressed gratitude to the congress for maintaining a harmonious relationship with his administration and 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 welfare of the people of the 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 of the workers.
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.