Staff of Abia State Polytechnic, Aba, erupted in joy on Friday, September 13, 2024, after receiving salary arrears accumulated by previous administrations.
The back pay, which had long been a source of frustration and uncertainty for the workers, was finally settled by the current state government, led by Governor Alex Otti.
In a video shared online, staff members were seen kneeling in gratitude and praying for the governor in celebration of the long-awaited relief.
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The Abia State government had earlier announced plans to offset the N16.5 billion in arrears owed to staff at state-owned educational institutions, a burden inherited from the previous administration.
Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Mike Akpara, assured the public in June that the debts would be cleared in tranches while ensuring that the state’s other sectors continued to progress.
Friday marked the fulfillment of that promise for the first batch of Polytechnic staff, who had waited for years for their pay.
The joy and gratitude among the staff were palpable, with many expressing hope for a brighter future.
The gesture from the governor’s administration signals a renewed faith in good governance, reminding citizens that change is possible and that patience, even in the face of long-standing hardship, can eventually pay off.
This act has set a new tone for governance in Abia State, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the welfare of citizens.