The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, has issued a communiqué calling on the Ondo State Government to expedite efforts in addressing workers’ welfare, ahead of the upcoming November 16, 2024, governorship election.
The Congress, presided over by Union Chairman Prince Leke Adegbite and attended by members from across the state, outlined several resolutions following their meeting at the NUJ Press Centre in Akure.
In a significant appeal, the Congress called on the state government to fulfill its commitment to implementing a N73,000 minimum wage, a measure that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa had previously promised to alleviate the economic strain on workers.
“The Congress calls on the Ondo State Government to fast-track negotiations with the organized labour and ensure timely implementation of N73,000 new minimum wage for its workers,” the communiqué emphasized, while urging for additional palliative support, including the subsidized sale of food items for the public.
The Congress also highlighted the need for fair treatment of staff at The Hope, the state-owned newspaper under Owena Press Limited.
A statement from the Congress urged the State’s Minimum Wage Technical Committee to “consider and protect the interest of the Staff of the Owena Press Limited by coming up with better salary scale for them that will reflect the current economic reality.”
Reflecting on the forthcoming election, the NUJ praised the peaceful campaign environment so far and appealed to candidates and their supporters to maintain this peace.
They urged political figures to conduct “issue-based” campaigns to help voters make informed decisions.
Furthermore, the Congress cautioned voters against engaging in vote-buying, stating,
“We caution voters not to mortgage their future and that of their children with Vote Trading during the November 16 election.”
In a nod to preparations by INEC and security agencies, the NUJ called for a fair election process.
Additionally, the Congress recommended collaboration between INEC and the Ondo NUJ for accrediting journalists, aiming to prevent misinformation and preserve peace in the state.
The Congress concluded by appreciating the state government for sustaining its student transportation program and by commending the Ondo State Ministry of Infrastructure for improvements to the Press Centre road and sports facilities, acknowledging the support of the Special Adviser, Pastor Joseph Ayo Babalola.
This communiqué underscores the critical role of the NUJ in advocating for both worker welfare and democratic integrity, as Ondo State prepares for the polls later this month
