The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) Imo State Chapter led by Pastor (Dr) Richard Eze, has commended the appointment of Hon Mayor Chukwudi Eze as Special Adviser (SA) to the Governor on Local government and Chieftaincy Affairs and pleaded with him to use his outstanding experience and pedigree in council related matters to ensure effective development of the council areas.
They stated this during a courtesy visit to the SA in his Office at Owerri,yesterday.
NULGE described Eze’s appointment as strategic for the development of the state.They also appreciated the Governor, Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha, for identifying the expertise and sterling leadership and administrative qualities in Mayor Eze.
Their address which was presented to Hon Eze reads in part,”In fact this remains one of the very superior appointments of this administration, to further extend our gratitude to his Excellency for his prompt approval and implementation of financial autonomy to the local governments in the State. Today, life has been restored to the local governments and its administration, salaries regularly paid, schedule of duties reclaimed, staff claims paid then the follow-up job satisfaction and punctuality. Furthermore, the Local Government Areas are experiencing bee-hive of activities as series of people oriented projects are being financed and executed in the nooks and crannies’ of the Local Government Areas. To us, this remains the major highlight of His Excellency’s 100 days in office. Other numerous rebuild Imo projects and programme abound. In deed His word is his bond.
At this juncture, let us inform you that the essence of this visit is to introduce to you the new leadership of our great Union, NULGE in Imo State. As you are aware, the leadership is the product of our 8th Quad’ 3nnial state delegates conference held on 8th August, 2019 at Imo Labour House Owerri. We are also here to further interact with you on the prospects and problems of the Union and Local Government Workers in Imo State”, the release stated.
They also used the opportunity to appreciate the Deputy governor and commissioner of police,”We are grateful to His Excellency the Deputy Governor Engr. Gerald Irona, the Imo State Commissioner of Police and the Chairman Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Imo State for mediating and resolving the crisis that came up prior to the NULGE branch and State elections.
Having applauded government for the approval and implementation of financial autonomy for Local Governments in the State, we also appreciate the reversal and payment of 100% Salary to workers which hitherto was slashed by the former administration of Governor Rochas Okorocha. We are grateful to His Excellency the Deputy Governor Engr. Gerald Irona, the Imo State Commissioner of Police and the Chairman Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Imo State for mediating and resolving the crisis that came up prior to the NULGE branch and State elections.
On our side, as tested, trusted, and duly elected leaders with high expectations from our members, we have already set in-motion strategies for the optimum realization of the rights, privileges and welfare of our workers while our tenure lasts. Sir, our problems also seem to be so numerous but for now let us humbly request as follows:
That the already approved official vehicles for our Directors of Admin and General Services, Treasurers and state NULGE officers be released to ease service delivery.
That Staff of the Local Government System be used in staffing the Local Government Service Commission. This of course will allow for efficiency in managing Local Government Staff related matters.
That approval be quickly granted for a seminar/workshop for Local Government Chairmen, Directors of Administration and General Services (DAGS), Treasurers and State/Branch Union Leaders. Expectedly the Seminar shall discuss and stream line issues of Government Labour relationship in the Local Government settling. Also for regular workshop for other Staff and Union Leaders of the Local Government. Consequently, our staff will be kept abreast of current work ethics, rules, guidelines and methodologies”, the release stated.
In his response, Hon. Chief Mayor Eze, thanked the labour leaders and assured them of his readiness to partner with them. He urged them to continue to support all the activities of government, stating that the achievement of the present administration already speaks volume of the sincerity of the governor, Rt.Hon Emeka Ihedioha who he said has maintained that his word remains his bond.
