A group, under the aegis of concerned trade unions in Ekiti, which comprises the state’s chapters of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW); Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN); Ajegboro Association; Cooperative Drivers Union; Okada Riders Association; NATA, and artisans among others, made the call on Monday, with a promise to stage a solidarity rally in support of the governor today.
In a statement co-signed by the leaders of the unions, who included Clement Adekola, state chairman of NURTW; Mr Agbede Gbenga, RTEAN chairman; Mr. Tosin Atowoja, Ajegboro Association; Elder Johnson Abioye, Cooperative Drivers Union; Mr Niyi J.O., Okada Riders Chairman; Mr Alo Babatope, Chairman, NATA; Mr. J.O. Adu, chairman, Artisans, the unions said: “We appeal to the striking labour, Ekiti State, to immediately suspend the strike and we want them to see reasons with the government.
“There is a difference between what is at hand and what you don’t have. The governor has been transparent with the labour by taking them along with details of the federal allocations coming into the state.
“It is obvious that Ekiti, like other 28 states in Nigeria challenged by payment of salaries, does not have the money to meet the current demands of Ekiti labour.”
Citing another example of Benue State labour unions, who in spite of being owed over 13 months salary, still maintained industrial harmony in the state, the concerned Ekiti unions further urged the striking workers to emulate the understanding gesture of their colleagues, saying: “Without doubt, they (Ekiti labour) have a right to their wages, but when you don’t have, you can’t give. In the South-West for instance, there are states owing more than Ekiti as a result of their lean purse and the labour in those states show understanding and cooperation with their government, why is Ekiti an exception? Do we assume this has a political undertone?
“ Our wives and children are members of Ekiti labour and we will continue to make them understand that strike is not an option, especially when we are aware of a state like Benue owing more than 13 months’ salary and they still have industrial harmony in that state.”
They drew the attention of the striking workers to what had transpired on the national scene when the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) showed understanding with the Federal Government by suspending the strike against increment in fuel pump price.”
The national body of the Nigeria Labour Congrees (NLC) was cowed when the pump price of fuel was increased and they did not opt for an indefinite industrial strike. One would begin to wonder if there is more to it.
This rally is to demonstrate our support and solidarity for the governor and this we will continue to do as the need arises.
On no account will the drivers, okada riders and others join with any group of people who want to make the state ungovernable, “they said.
My take:
Are these solicitors ready to provide free transportation for the striking workers??
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