The Abia State Governorship candidate of the Labour Party, Dr. Alex Otti, has said he would ensure that all outstanding arrears of pensions and salaries owed Abia workers if he becomes Governor of the State.
Otti, who made this commitment on Wednesday during his acceptance speech as the candidate of the Abia State Labour Party, said he would make sure that the inglorious practice of non-payment of salaries and pensions would be a thing of the past.
He said:
“You and I already know most of the deep rooted challenges confronting us as a state; the problem of infrastructural decay, collapse of our health and education system; unemployment, poverty insecurity and non-payment of salaries and pensions.
“For a start, we shall move in with courage and sincerity and ensure that all outstanding arrears of salaries and pensions are completely cleared within the first year of our administration.
“I consider this a matter of urgent importance because of my knowledge of the way the economy works and my understanding of the importance of the civil service in the economic development of a state. I would ensure that the inglorious practice of non-payment of salaries and pensions would be a thing of the past. I have always held the view that a labourer is worthy of his wage, and therefore, not paying salaries is unjust and inhuman. It is also an anti stimulant for an economy that needs stimulation and growth.”
He said his administration would also ensure free and accessible education for the pupils and students in both primary and secondary schools in the State.
