Acting Chairman of Akoko-Edo Local Government Area, Rt. Hon. Alabi Bliss Oshionogue, has emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in achieving sustainable governance.
Hon. Oshionogue made this assertion during a stakeholder engagement with the executive members of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), where discussions focused on the path forward for the local government area.
The council chairman highlighted his longstanding cordial relationship with local government staff during his tenure as leader of the legislative arm and reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening these ties to foster growth in alignment with the policies of Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
He addressed concerns over the delayed payment of January salaries, attributing the setback to ongoing litigations by former council chairmen. However, he assured workers of the governor’s commitment to resolving the issue while urging continued solidarity with the state and local governments to promote inclusive governance.
Our goal is to build an egalitarian society where future generations can thrive. I remain committed to prioritizing the needs of local government employees within the limits of available resources, he stated.
Earlier in the meeting, NULGE Chairman, Comrade Olorunda J. Friday, commended the council boss on his elevation, pledging the union’s unwavering support for the success of his administration.
Comrade Olorunda praised Akoko-Edo Local Government for being one of the best-performing councils in the state in terms of health programs. He also urged the chairman to address outstanding salary arrears and pending staff promotions, which were affected by recent administrative transitions.
We stand ready to work with your administration to shape a more efficient and progressive local government system, he affirmed.
Accompanying the NULGE chairman at the meeting were other executive members, including Secretary Bello Bernard, Treasurer Roseline Enaifoghe, Agric Department Representative Alao Grace, PA to the Chairman Ehihi Taiye, and Women’s Chairperson Rita Okawhere, among others.