— Civil Servants Rally Support for Governor Ahead of Election

By Dayo Johnson, Akure

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has announced that the new minimum wage of ₦73,000 for civil servants will take effect this month (November).

He made this statement during the 2024 Public Service Week celebration, an event highlighted by a fitness walk to promote public workers’ health and well-being.

Led by labor leaders, civil servants walked through parts of the state capital, culminating at the Government House, where they voiced their support for the governor ahead of the November 16 governorship election.

Addressing the workers, Governor Aiyedatiwa reiterated his commitment to prioritizing civil servants’ welfare, emphasizing that the new minimum wage was a finalized decision reflecting his administration’s dedication to improving the quality of life for the state’s workforce. He noted that a committee had been formed to establish the wage implementation structure, which has now been completed, allowing for prompt approval and payment.

“Anything we have done for civil servants has never been politically driven. If workers are not happy, they won’t be encouraged to put in maximum effort into their work. That is why we have always prioritized their welfare,” the governor stated.

Aiyedatiwa assured the civil servants that, if re-elected, he would exceed his current achievements, pledging to further enhance conditions for the workforce. He expressed gratitude for their solidarity, reminding them of his shared identity as the state’s chief public servant.

The Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for fostering a conducive environment for civil servants. Philip highlighted the administration’s efforts in ensuring prompt salary payments, regular promotions, leave bonuses, and consistent pension disbursements.

State Chairman of the Trade Union Congress, Comrade Clement Fatuase, also praised the governor’s commitment to civil servants, expressing confidence that they would proudly celebrate his victory on November 17.