Protest mars Ebonyi workers’ verification

MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF KADUNA STATE STUDENTS, PROTESTING OVER NON PAYMENT OF THEIR 2014 SCHOLARSHIP ALLOWANCE IN KADUNA ON TUESDAY

Protests in Ishielu, Ohaukwu, Ebonyi, Afikpo North, Ezza North and Izzi local government areas of Ebonyi State yesterday, marred the workers’ verification.

Workers across the councils protested what they described as ‘government’s insensitivity to the plight of civil servants and plans to cut their salary’.

The protesters alleged that they were compelled to sign the voucher for payment of their old salary.

In Ezza North, council workers participated in the exercise but primary and junior secondary teachers walked out.

Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Teachers in Ezza North, Mr. Samuel Offiagu, and Chairman of Association of Primary School Head Teachers, Mr Livinus Egede, regretted that the government decided to revert to the old salary structure rather than continue with the new one instituted by the last administration

They said the protest was to press home their dissatisfaction with government’s decision.

“We have resolved not to receive anything short of the 50 per cent salary paid to other civil servants. Teachers cannot be an exception, no amount of intimidation or harassment would make us collect what is not due to us. Others have been paid the 50 per cent and teachers must also receive it,” they said.

Appeals by the Commissioner for Environment, Moses Ogodo Ali Nome, for the workers to reconsider their stand did not yield result.

Commissioner for Information and State Orientation, Emma Onwe alleged that the protest was politically-motivated.

Onwe maintained that the exercise was well intended, stressing that the protest was orchestrated by political opponents.

He described the exercise as successful and urged the workers to avail themselves of the opportunity.

Reacting to the protest, the All Progressives Congress (APC) described the allegation as baseless, adding that the people were already disenchanted with the government.

Chairman Pastor Nwachukwu Eze called on Governor Dave Umahi to fulfil his campaign promises rather than look for excuses for his colossal failure.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

* indicates required

Intuit Mailchimp