Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodinma, disappointed workers on May Day as he did not address their demands for a salary increase during the celebrations.
In an address presented by the Labour Leader in Imo State, workers had called for a raise in salaries, but the Governor remained silent on the matter. Instead, he pledged to be the first to implement the new minimum wage after negotiating with the labour union, while announcing other welfare packages.
Governor Uzodinma emphasized his commitment to workers’ welfare, highlighting the payment of gratuity to over 30,000 retired workers in Imo State. However, he noted that individuals with fraudulent documents were yet to receive their gratuity payments.
He assured workers of prompt payment of the new national minimum wage once approved by the President and hinted at timely payment of financial benefits for workers’ promotions.
Furthermore, Governor Uzodinma announced the extension of service for Imo teachers and pledged to reciprocate the support received from civil servants, emphasizing their importance in the state’s development.
Addressing workers directly, he urged them to take their jobs seriously, avoid truancy and lateness, and focus on adding value to the system. He also cautioned against using government time for personal business activities.
The Governor expressed concern over illegal land allocation by government appointees, vowing to tackle the issue by appointing himself as land commissioner.
During the celebrations, Labour leaders reiterated workers’ demands for promotion financial benefits, minimum wage increases, and improved welfare packages, while commending the Governor for road infrastructure development in Imo State.
Despite criticisms over the absence of a minimum wage announcement, new commissioners affirmed the Governor’s dedication to workers’ welfare and pledged to support efforts to bring development to Imo State.
