The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a 21-day ultimatum to Benue State Government to pay workers 10 months’ salary arrears and 34 months’ pensions.
A communiqué signed by the state NLC chairman, Godwin Anya, indicated that the decision was reached after members of the union met and deliberated over issues negatively affecting the welfare of Benue workers and pensioners.
Anya said upon the expiration of the ultimatum, the NLC would not guarantee any form of industrial peace and harmony in the state.
According to the communique, state government workers are owed five months (August – December 2017), local government workers – 10 months, state pensioners – 34 months and local government pensioners – 74 months.
Reacting to the development, Governor Samuel Ortom told newsmen in Makurdi that he had nothing hidden in the fact about the financial constraints of the state government in meeting the needs of the workers as they had been part of the allocation disbursement committee and knew exactly what was coming in and going out of the state coffers.
“So, it is something that we have to look for better ways for earning more money to pay. Of course, I will still remind you that Benue State is paying the highest salary. In this country, we are number 2 in paying salaries. But we will still engage them (NLC) and discuss to resolve any issues,” Ortom said.
