Ondo state workers through the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council have lamented the failure of the state government to fulfill its promise of paying their 2024 Leave Bonus Allowance.
In a letter addressed to the State Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip and obtained by Roving Reporters on Friday, the workers expressed disappointment that the state government was dragging feet on the promise it has earlier made on the payment of the Leave Bonus Allowance.
The letter signed by the chairman of the council, comrade, Olapade Ademola also lamented that the current economic hardship is hitting hard on the workers, hence the need for the state government to pay without delay.
The letter reads, “With due respect, we write to remind you about the government/labour meeting of Tuesday, 27th August, 2024 held at Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor’s, Office Alagbaka akure and your commitment that the 2024 annual leave allowance to all state workers would be paid inmediately after getting the State Governor’s approval.
“To our dismay, since then we are in the dark as to why the so long delay in effecting the payment.
“The workers of Ondo State continuing to serve with dedication, even in the face of various challenges. The annual leave allowance is greatly helping the state workers to manage their personal obligations, given the financial pressures that many workers are currently experiencing due to sudden increase in fuel pump price.
“The timely payment of this allowance is crucial, taking into cognizance the new school term is set to commence soon, many workers, especially those with school-going children, are under significant financial strain and timely payment will greatly complement the school-related expenses
“Your commitment that leave allowance would be paid immediately after getting Mr. Governor’s approval has been a source of hope for the workers, and we are confident that you will fulfill this promise as agreed.
“We want to implore you to use your good office to expedite the process and ensure that the allowance is paid without further delay, while appreciating the Ondo State Government’s commitment to the well-being and advancement of the state workers.
Reacting in a chat with Roving Reporters on Friday, the Head Service, Mr Bayo Philip said, “Arrangement is already at final stage for the payment as both labour and my office still met on Wednesday this week.
“Government has been prudent enough to have saved enough for the payment. The office of the Accountant General is just putting final touches to paper work.”
