Politics
By Ajiri-Oghene Oreh
HOUSE of Representatives member-elect, Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko has sought for improved welfare for Nigerian workers as they join their counterparts the world over to mark this year’s International Workers’ Day.
Ukodhiko, in a statement on Sunday in Abuja, said, “it is another opportunity to celebrate and honour every Nigerian worker, who have contributed to the nation’s development by way of labour”
According to him, “as we all know, the International Workers’ Day was conceived to draw attention to the plights and the needs of the working class.”
He revealed, “This year’s May Day celebration marks the 42nd anniversary of workers’ day as a public holiday in Nigeria, and like that of 2015, 2007, is taking place in a political transition.
“As a result, the incoming administrations at both the State and Federal levels should take responsibility of the welfare of the people, which is the primary purpose of government.
“Yes, the great issue of the Nigerian workers‘ welfare should be taken as top priority by government and institutions, and it should be addressed more decisively and urgently for improved productivity.
“We must think critically and creatively come up with ways to provide massive jobs opportunities through revamping of old and the establishing of new factories and industries, improved electricity supply, and the clampdown of high interest rates and devaluation of the naira.”
The Isoko Federal lawmaker-elect, Engr. Ukodhiko described the Nigerian workers as wealth creators, saying, “they remain the engine rooms for development in the nation.
“I must salute the Nigerian workers for their resilience, sacrifices, and dedication to the growth of the nation despite worsening rate of inflation which has pushed them into poverty and untold hardship.”
Ukodhiko, also commended the Nigerian Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, and United Labour Congress for championing the cause of workers in the public and private sectors.
“However, I must urge the various labour bodies to work collaboratively, by complementing each other in the agitations for enhanced welfare and good working conditions for the Nigerian workers.”
The former Delta State Energy Commissioner, advised workers in the country to be more committed and steadfast, and eschew bribery, stealing, assuring of remediation of the conditions of the working class.
“When inaugurated into the House of Representatives, I’ll sponsor workers-friendly bills that will improve the working conditions for workers in line with the internationally recognized standards as approved by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
“I’m a strong believer for the well-being and welfare of workers. I’ll promote policies and support efforts that are aimed at ensuring workers in the country are well catered for,” Ukodhiko added.
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Tags: Ajiri-Oghene Oreh Engr. Jonathan Ukodhiko Nigerian Labour Congress Trade Union Congress
