By Peter Okore, Umuahia
As political activities ahead of the 2027 elections gather momentum, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has cautioned workers and residents against allowing themselves to be used by politicians to advance personal interests.
Speaking during the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration at Umuahia Township Stadium, the governor urged citizens to remain vigilant and committed to the collective good rather than partisan manipulation.
In an address titled “Of Duty and Dignity,” delivered on his behalf by the Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, Otti encouraged workers to embrace dialogue as a pathway to justice and harmony.
“I encourage you to remain steadfast in the labour of dialogue, for its fruits are justice and harmony,” he said.
The governor praised the Abia workforce for its resilience, integrity, and contributions to the state’s development, noting that their efforts have helped shape the identity and economic progress of the state.
“Your services and products have given our dear state its unique identity and opened doors of opportunity to individuals and households,” he stated, adding that workers remain central to the vision of the “New Abia” project.
Otti reiterated his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, assuring them that their demands are under review in line with prevailing economic realities and administrative provisions. He stressed that beyond salaries and entitlements, career growth and capacity development remain key priorities.
According to him, the government has continued to invest in training programmes and workplace improvements, including the renovation of office complexes and provision of modern equipment to enhance productivity and comfort.
On employment policies, Otti emphasized that his administration prioritises competence over political patronage, creating opportunities for skilled individuals to contribute meaningfully to governance.
“What you can bring to the table is more valuable than any primordial consideration. You cannot compete by shutting the door on excellence,” he said.
Addressing pension-related concerns, the governor disclosed that over ₦10 billion has been earmarked in the 2026 budget for the phased payment of gratuities owed to retirees over the past two decades. He added that disbursement would commence soon after the ongoing verification process.
“We are committed to correcting past injustices without compromising our ability to meet current obligations,” he assured.
In his remarks, Chairman of the occasion, Ginger Onwusibe, urged civil servants to tackle issues such as lateness, absenteeism, and truancy in the public service.
Also speaking, the state Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Kingsley Nwokocha, pledged continued efforts to strengthen dialogue, promote industrial harmony, and protect workers’ rights.
The state chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Okoro Ogbonnaya, described insecurity and poverty as major obstacles to decent work, calling for a review of the national minimum wage to reflect current economic realities. He also condemned the casualisation of workers and advocated for the implementation of a living wage.
Similarly, the chairman of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, Ifeanyi Eze, called for an urgent review of the contributory pension scheme and an upward adjustment of workers’ salaries.
The event featured a march-past by various labour unions and the presentation of awards to outstanding participants.