From Scholastica Onyeka, Makurdi
The Benue State Deputy Governor-elect, Mr Sam Ode, has said that the incoming All Progressives Congress, (APC), led government would declare a state of emergency on payment of outstanding salaries and pensions of civil servants in the state.
Ode, who stated this in a chat with newsmen after he received a delegation from a Support Group, Alia Alliance World Wide, said the gesture would motivate the state workforce and improve service delivery to the people.
The former Minister of State for Niger Delta who noted that the importance of wages to the well-being of the workforce, cannot be overemphasized said “We also cannot say that the payment of salaries is an achievement but it is a stepping stone to doing more.
“The civil service remains the engine room of every society, we will ensure that the civil service is functional before other things could come up.”
While assuring that the Alia administration would create an enabling environment and opportunities for indigenes of the state to thrive, Ode said “We are not taking the opportunity being given to us by the Benue people for granted.
“Even the holy Bible tells us that every worker is worthy of his wages, when anyone works, his wages should be paid. It is not questionable.
“It is our intention to clear the backlog of salaries and wages. We know that pensioners are suffering and we want to halt that trend.
“If people will work after 35 years and they cannot be guaranteed of their pension, it means that the motivation to put in their best on the job will not be there.
“We will declare an emergency on the outstanding pensions, salaries of local government and state workers,” he said.
He said that as a deputy, he would work with his principal to deliver on their campaign promises.
“I am very sure that with the assumption of office on May 29, the outstanding salaries, pensions and gratuities will be settled,“ he said.
He also said that the incoming administration would prioritize security of the people by putting in measures that would curb insecurity and enhance growth in the state.
He also said the new administration intends to improve the facility of the education of Benue children.
”The average girl or boy is brilliant, what they are looking for is a good and conducive environment to study.”
He thanked the group for their support and urged them to set up a platform for the government to take off.
“Develop a new structure for the government to take off, plan ,organise retreats for elected members for good governance,“he said.
“I remain hopeful in any group, association that will produce and create avenues for peace and economic growth of the state. We will not take your trust for granted.
He thanked the Benue people for giving them the opportunity to serve the state.
Leaders of the group, Mr Kelvins Dzeremo and Mr Kenneth Gyado in their separate remarks, urged the deputy governor – elect to work harmoniously with the governor – elect, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to continue to win the trust of the people and promised to support them to achieve positive reforms in the state.