Traditional rulers in Cross River State, South-South Nigeria have called on Governor Ben Ayade to find lasting solution to ongoing workers strike by personally meeting with the Labour leaders.
In a statement after meeting with the Union leaders, Chairman of the Cross River State Traditional Rulers Council and Paramount Ruler of Bakassi, Etim Okon Edet advised the Governor to commence payment of gratuity to retirees from January 2022.
Also Read: National Security : NYSC to monitor use of social media by corps members in Cross River
The Monarch commended Governor Ayade for prompt payment of monthly salary and pension since he came into office in 2015, but urged the government to resolve the lingering issue in the interest of the State.
“Having interfaced with some key leaders of the striking unions, we observed that most of the issues at stake have already been trashed by government.
“It has indeed been a miracle how His Excellency has been able to pay salaries and pensions of the workforce since assumption of office in 2015, especially, considering that Cross River State’s financial inflows are amongst the least in the country.
“The main issue pending, from our engagements, is payment of gratuities to retirees. This is, no doubt, an inherited burden, coupled with homongous debts incurred by past administrations.
“We appeal to His Excellency to personally meet with Labour leaders and place the state’s financial predicaments before them. Thereafter, seek their understanding. After all, same leaders previously named him “Most Labour Friendly Governor” in Cross River State.
“He should pledge to set aside N20million (or more if economy improves) monthly to settle gratuities from January 2022. This should be captured in the budget.
“We thank the Labour leaders and the entire workforce for their patience and understanding with Government” the statement read in part.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
