Labor union criticizes Abubakar Chika Malami over campaign pledges regarding workers' welfare and salaries.
The Kebbi State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress has sharply criticized the October speech delivered by Abubakar Chika Malami, labeling his recent campaign pledges regarding workers and retirees as completely deceptive and unrealistic.
State Chairman Usman Murtala released a statement on Thursday in Birnin Kebbi, stating that the political declarations made by the candidate aimed to deceive gullible citizens with issues that the current state government has already successfully resolved, according to information published by The Sun Nigeria.
The labor union leader emphasized that while they typically avoid engaging in partisan politics, the statements issued by the opposition candidate constituted a direct attack on the integrity and ongoing efforts of the workers' union.
Response to Gratuity and Pension Claims
Addressing the pledge concerning the prompt payment of retirees, the NLC chairman stated that Malami is clearly out of touch with ongoing events because every reasonable citizen in Kebbi State is fully aware that Governor Idris has never delayed payments of gratuities since taking office.
Pensioners in the state are living witnesses to the regular and prompt disbursement of monthly pensions, often receiving their funds even before serving civil workers, which directly contradicts the narrative presented by the political candidate seeking public sympathy.
Minimum Wage and Public Transport Realities
Regarding the proposed new minimum wage of N110,000, the union clarified that the Kebbi State Government is already paying N75,000 consolidated with leave grants, which exceeds the federal standard of N70,000 and makes it one of the highest packages nationwide.
Furthermore, the NLC noted that Malami completely ignored the newly launched Kebbi State Transport Authority, a critical initiative designed to ease daily commuting challenges for citizens and workers traveling from rural areas into the State Secretariat.
Housing and Education Sector Developments
In the housing sector, Murtala explained that over 700 affordable housing units had already been approved by Governor Idris and are currently at advanced stages of construction to benefit hardworking civil servants across the state.
Primary education has equally received massive structural attention, featuring the recent implementation of responsibility allowances, the construction of over 200 renovated schools equipped with furniture, and the successful recruitment of 2,000 new teachers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Kebbi NLC criticize Abubakar Chika Malami?
The Nigeria Labour Congress in Kebbi State criticized Abubakar Chika Malami because his October speech contained unrealistic and deceptive political promises regarding workers' welfare, pensions, and minimum wage that disregard ongoing government achievements.
What is the current minimum wage paid in Kebbi State?
Kebbi State currently pays a minimum wage of N75,000 consolidated with leave grants, which surpasses the Federal Government benchmark of N70,000 according to state labor officials.
How is the Kebbi State Government handling retirees' gratuities?
Governor Idris's administration ensures prompt payments of pensions and gratuities to retired civil servants without delays or backlogs, with payments often disbursed before active workers receive their salaries.
What infrastructure projects have been implemented for Kebbi workers?
The state administration has approved over 700 affordable housing units for workers, launched the Kebbi State Transport Authority, renovated over 200 schools, and employed thousands of new teachers and health workers.
