The Organized Labour in Abia State has issued a final seven-day ultimatum to the state government, threatening to commence an indefinite strike action if their demands are not met. This decision was reached during a general meeting held on Monday, July 8, 2024.
The ultimatum follows a previous 14-day notice which expired without any resolution from the state government regarding the workers’ demands. The issues at the heart of the dispute include the non-payment of the former N30,000 minimum wage and the N35,000 palliative wage award approved by the Federal Government since October 2023.
In the letter addressed to Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, the labour leaders expressed their disappointment over the government’s failure to engage in dialogue or provide a solution. The letter, signed by Comrade Okoro Ogbonnaya (NLC State Chairman) and Comrade Sir Enogwe Ihechi (TUC State Chairman), stated that if the government fails to comply within the stipulated seven days, the entire workforce of Abia State will proceed on an indefinite strike starting from Monday, July 15, 2024.
The letter highlights the frustration of the workers and emphasizes the lack of further communication with the government beyond the ultimatum. It is also copied to various key officials, including the Head of Service, the SSA on Labour Relation to the Governor, the Director of State Security Service, the Commissioner of Police, and the State Controller of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Productivity in Abia State.
The Organized Labour’s decision comes in line with national directives and reflects the growing tension between the state government and its workforce. As the deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the government’s response to avert the impending strike which could significantly disrupt state operations.
