Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has requested that organized labor in the state reconsider its upcoming two-day warning strike set to begin at midnight on Sunday, November 24, and conclude on Tuesday, November 26, 2024.
Represented by his deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Governor Otu made this appeal during the 5th State Solemn Assembly held at the U.J. Esuene Stadium in Calabar on Saturday.
“Governor Otu places great importance on the welfare of the workforce,” Odey emphasised.
He urged the leadership of organized labor and all affiliates of the NLC and TUC to call off their planned state-wide strike and to join the Governor in his efforts to enhance the well-being of the community.
Odey pointed out the advancements made since the Solemn Assembly’s inception, reaffirming Governor Otu’s dedication to creating a better Cross River for all its residents.
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He encouraged citizens to continue their support and prayers for the administration’s ‘People First’ approach in line with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He highlighted notable infrastructure developments throughout the state’s three senatorial districts, including road construction, the renovation of the Governor’s Office, and improvements to the State Library and government accommodations in Calabar, Abuja, and Lagos.
Odey assured Cross Riverians that the administration is also focused on enhancing the health, agriculture, and education sectors to improve citizens’ welfare.
Further conveying the Governor’s intentions, Odey stated that Governor Otu is dedicated to enhancing conditions for active and retired workers, which includes addressing backlogs of gratuities, ensuring timely pension payments, and executing overdue promotions.
He also asserted that Cross River State intends to provide a salary exceeding the proposed ₦70,000 national minimum wage.
During his sermon, the Guest Preacher and Founder of Streams of Joy International, Pastor Jerry Eze, spoke on the theme, “Ebenezer: A State Helped by God.”
He encouraged Christians, especially those in leadership roles, to lead with reverence for God and embody Christ-like virtues.
Pastor Eze commended the state’s administration for organizing the solemn assembly, acknowledging its commitment to seeking divine guidance.
He noted that Cross River stands out as one of the few states that prioritize putting “God First.”
The event concluded with a special prayer session for the Governor and his family, Deputy Governor, State Executive Council members, traditional leaders, and other high-ranking officials.
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