The Mayor of Aba North Local Government Area, Ide John Udeagbala, has reassured the employees of the local government council that their 13th month salary will be paid soon. This announcement was made after the workers protested against the non-payment of the salary, which was approved by Governor Alex Otti in December.
Addressing the workers, Udeagbala explained that the delay in processing the salary was majorly due to the fact that the funds were paid into a garnishee account which required some paper work to pull out.
He equally mentioned that the ongoing biometric capturing exercise, where only about 280 out of 1000 workers have been captured has also contributed to the delay in payment.
However in an emotion laden voice, he assured the workers that the issue would be resolved within the next few days.
“Our major issue are the fact that the money mearnt for this payment was paid into a garnishee account and we are working on the best way to pull it out. I’m not a politician, I was brought here to strengthen out things because I’m a wealth creator. I don’t tell lies, i’m working round the clock with the accountant-general to resolve the issue in the shortest possible time” He assured.
Udeagbala, who is also the chairman of Udeagbala Holdings, praised the workers for their peaceful protest and assured them that, as a successful business owner with over 400 staff, he understands the importance of creating a conducive work environment. He vowed to ensure that the local government workers receive their 13th month salary soon.
The mayor emphasized that Governor Alex Otti’s main priorities are regular salary payments, infrastructural development, education, efficient healthcare, and a business-friendly environment. He also highlighted the progress made in Abia State, particularly in Aba, and called for everyone’s support to sustain this growth. The mayor urged all to work together to restore the former glory of Aba under the current administration.
Recall, Governor Alex Otti,in December, promised to pay an extra month’s salary to workers in Abia State as a special package for Christmas and New Year.