By Ayo Kehinde
Organised Labour movement in Oyo State has flayed what it considers a “malicious and devilish interview granted by Mr Bayo Titilola Sodo, the Special Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Labour matters on some media Stations yesterday, (Wednesday),” arguing that, “the misleading statements have caused serious damage to the relationship between the Oyo State Government and the Labour Movement in the State.”
NLC Chairman in the state and his TUC counterpart, Comrade Kayode Martins and TUC Comrade Bosun Olabiyi said issues raised in the said interview needed to be addressed urgently to restore normalcy of relationship.
According to them the three issues begging for answers are;
1. False Committee on Fuel Subsidy Effects.
“On Sodo’s claim that a committee was set up by the Oyo State government on June 5 to meet on measures to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy, it would interest the workers and citizens of Oyo State up till now the committee had not met. It is even more alarming and distressing that he did not mention agents within the Government that are pushing Labour leaders out of the picture. This raises serious questions about transparency and accountability within the Government.
2. Misleading Deductions Claim and Workers Suffering.
The Special Adviser’s assertion that the Oyo State government does not owe six months of deductions coupled with confirmation that all workers have received their July alert is deeply worrying. His statement shows lack of empathy for the hardships faced by workers whose Salary can no longer take care of their Welfare any more further
3. Unfulfilled Promise on Pensioners Allowance
Governor Seyi Makinde’s promise to review upward the allowance of pensioners during electioneering remains unfulfilled, despite Governor Alao Akala being the last to review pensioners’ allowance. This lack of progress has undoubtedly contributed to the present predicament faced by the pensioners, and their concerns can be verified with the Oyo State Union of pensioners.
4 Unfounded Allegations against Union Leaders
The Special Adviser’s baseless allegations against Union leaders not being workers in the State are regrettable. It is unfortunate that such statements were made publicly, without any substantiated evidence, and only serve to mislead the public and undermine the credibility of these leaders
“We urge the Oyo State government to address these concerns urgently and take necessary corrective measures to rebuild trust and foster a better relationship with the Labour force in the State.
“Transparent communication and accountability are crucial in ensuring the well-being of workers and pensioners.
“We call for an open dialogue between the government and relevant stakeholders to address these issues and find sustainable solutions.
“Also, we condemn the unfounded interview granted by Mr Titilola Sodo, which has caused significant harm to the trust and cooperation between the government and the Labour Movement
“It is essential for all parties to work together in good faith to resolve these matters and ensure the good welfare of Workers and the people of Oyo State.”
