Governor Alex Otti Negotiates with Abia State Labor Leaders Amid Indefinite Strike Threat

In response to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) threat of an indefinite strike starting July 15, Abia State Governor Alex Otti has initiated negotiations with state labor leaders.

The discussions, which began on Friday and are set to continue on Saturday, aim to address workers’ welfare in the state.

During the talks, Governor Otti pledged to establish a Ministry of Labour and Productivity, to be led by someone from the labor sector.

He acknowledged that his administration had not received any funds from the Federal Government to implement the N35,000 wage award for state workers but assured that he would consider the wage award demand.

The organized labor’s demands include the overdue N30,000 minimum wage, a 35,000 naira palliative award, leave and promotion arrears, outstanding salaries for workers in government parastatals and agencies, and pensions and gratuities.

Additionally, issues related to command promotions and verification matters are on the agenda.