Thousands of Ebonyi workers on Tuesday embarked on solidarity walk to appreciate the state Governor, Chief Francis Nwifuru for paying them a Christmas bonus of one hundred thousand naira, including other incentives.
The road walk took off from the Christian Ecumenical Centre, Abakaliki through Spera in Deo, Vanco Junction, Ogoja Road and down to the International Market, with the workers chanting songs of solidarity.
Addressing the workers in his office, Governor Nwifuru said he was overwhelmed by the show of solidarity and gratitude towards his modest efforts to improve the welfare of workers in the state.
According to him: “I want to tell you that I am challenged by the level of appreciation you have shown me today. I assure you of our readiness to always give accelerated attention to the welfare of workers.”
Nwifuru further urged the labour unions to close ranks and work for the interest of the state, pointing out that no meaningful progress could be achieved in an atmosphere of disunity.
He said “when I came to power, I was challenged by the level of poverty in this state. I want to tell you that for some of you who know me, I don’t believe in praises, we must work together to develop our dear state.”
Earlier, the Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress Ebonyi State Chapter, Professor Ogugua Egwu and his Trade Union Counterpart, Comrade Chidi Igboji commended the Governor for the prompt payment of workers’ salaries and incentives since his assumption of office.
They described Governor Nwifuru as a man with renewed hope and renewed energy, while congratulating him for his victory at the Supreme Court.
It would be recalled that apart from the hundred thousand naira Christmas bonus, Governor Nwifuru had earlier increased the salaries of workers a month after the assumption of office.
