In a move that has sparked widespread jubilation, Governor Alex Otti has paid the first installment of salary arrears owed to workers by the previous administration. The payment, totaling N1.5 billion, marks the beginning of a 12-month plan to offset the N18 billion arrears.
According to a statement by Chief Press Secretary, Ukoaha Njoku Ukoaha, Governor Otti is committed to clearing the debt, despite criticism from those who “looted and plundered” state funds.
The Governor’s decision has been met with thunderous applause from Abia workers, who have been denied their entitlements for far too long. As one worker exclaimed, “This is a new dawn for us! We are finally being paid what we deserve.”
Governor Otti’s administration has pledged to prioritize the welfare of state workers and retirees, ensuring that their statutory entitlements are met.
The payment of salary arrears is a significant step towards fulfilling this promise, and Abians are eagerly anticipating the full clearance of the debt.
As the Chief Press Secretary aptly put it, “Forward Canaan! Backward Egypt!” – a testament to the Governor’s commitment to progress and prosperity for the people of Abia State.
The statement reads in part
“Governor Alex Otti has paid the first trench of the arrears of workers salaries owed by the immediate past administration.
“The People’s Governor earmarked N1.5 Billion monthly to instalmentally offset the N18 Billion arrears of salaries within 12 Months.
“Ironically, those who looted and plundered salaries of State workers will still shamelessly criticise the Governor for cleaning their mess in the name of opposition politics.
“Governor Otti feels fulfilled with the thunderous jubilation and excitement of Abia Workers than the bitterness of those denied access to Statutory Workers and Retirees Entitlements.
Forward Canaan!
Backward Egypt”
