Toba Owojaiye reporting
Benin City, Edo state
In a bold move against the oppressive regime of the ruling party, workers at the Anambra State House of Assembly have launched an indefinite strike to protest against abysmal pay and deplorable working conditions. Under the leadership of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), these workers have staged a peaceful demonstration at the state assembly complex in Awka, the state capital, reaffirming their commitment to this necessary industrial action.
Truth Live News gathered that the grievances of the striking workers are many, ranging from the non-payment of entitlements to meager wages and inadequate working conditions. Despite assurances from the Conference of Speakers of the 36 state assemblies and the Governor’s Forum, little progress has been made in addressing these issues. Comrade Promise Chijioke Onwukwe, Deputy National President of PASAN, lamented the failure of previous attempts to resolve these issues, which have now forced the workers into taking drastic measures.
“Our earlier strike action was met with empty promises, but here in Anambra State, nothing has changed,” Onwukwe asserted. The protestors have presented specific demands, including the implementation of an enhanced salary structure known as CONYRESS, staff training, provision of laptops, establishment of an ICT unit within the assembly complex, allocation of utility vehicles, and increased recruitment.
Onwukwe also shed light on the harsh working conditions endured by the staff, emphasizing the stark contrast between their plight and the comfort enjoyed by lawmakers, who traverse the complex in air-conditioned vehicles. He highlighted safety hazards posed by overgrown vegetation within the premises, leading to frequent encounters with dangerous reptiles.
In response to these legitimate claims, the Majority Leader of the State House of Assembly, Ikenna Ofodeme, attempted to downplay the workers’ concerns, suggesting that they are striking over mere welfare-related issues such as allowances. He further insinuated that dissatisfied workers could seek reassignment under the office of the Head of Service.
“If they don’t want to work at the House of Assembly, they are free to go back to the Head of Service and not disrupt the activities of the House of Assembly,” remarked Ofodeme callously.
As the strike persists, the Anambra State Government and the Assembly leadership must heed the calls of the workers and address their demands promptly to bring an end to this ongoing industrial action.