The Cross River State Council of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has lauded the state government under the leadership of Senator Prince Bassey Otu, the “people’s first Governor,” for its remarkable achievements within the first eleven months in office.
The Congress used the opportunity to call on Civil / public servants and indeed, the entire Cross Riverians to be patient and give governor Otu the chance to deliver dividends of democracy which he has already started.
In a statement issued by the State Chairman of the Union, Comrade Monday Ogbodum, the TUC further commended the government for its efforts in rehabilitating and constructing roads within the Calabar Metropolis, improving street lighting as well as the beautification of the city capital and restoring traffic control lights.
He also lauded the government for the proposed #40,000 salary increment, implementation of annual incremental steps, full implementation of 2014/2016 promotions, the Christmas and Easter bonuses paid to workers amongst others.
Comrade Ogbodum noted that he believes in the principles of appreciation even in a little thing in other to achieve bigger ones.
The TUC Chairman however stressed the urgent need for the Cross River State Government to fulfill other obligations to civil/ public servants by promptly attending to workers welfare demands, particularly looking towards the direction of payment of gratuity.
While also calling on workers to be dedicated and be punctual at their duty posts, Comrade Ogbodum said, this would erase the 5% productivity level of the work force as declared by His Excellency during his May Day address.
“We must put in our best to achieve effective service delivery in all MDAs,” the TUC Chairman reiterated.
He appealed to the workers to be hopeful, as the Organised Labor continues their engagement with the government to secure a more favorable outcome. While also appealing to government to live up to its promises and promptly too, most importantly the commencement of the implementation of the new salary structure as announced.
“As the Cross River State Government confronts the pressing issue of meeting the worker’s welfare demands promptly, the TUC’s appeal echoes the concerns of many civil and public servants who have been adversely affected by the economic downturn.
“In doing so, they can demonstrate their commitment to upholding the well-being and fair treatment of their invaluable workforce, reaffirming their dedication to the people of Cross River State,” Ogbodum stated.
Ike Uchechukwu, Vanguard
