BY ADEBIMPE ADEYEMI
LEGISLATIVE aides, on Tuesday, protested at the National Assembly over unpaid salary arrears.
The aides, under the aegis of Concerned National Assembly Legislative Aides Forum, were seen at the foyer of the National Assembly with placards bearing various inscriptions.
They alleged that the Clerk to the National Assembly, Olatunde Ojo, had not paid their salary arrears, while their Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure had not also been implemented.
They were also protesting the non-payment of minimum wage and Duty Tour Allowances (DTA) to their members, including lack of training and poor conditions of service.
Immediately the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Femi Gbajabimila, approached the protesting workers, they relocated to the back entrance, chanting solidarity songs.
The Speaker, who demanded to hear from their leaders, was briefed by Zebis Prince, representing the South-South Geopolitical Zone of the group.
He listed their grievances to include non-payment of minimum wage and Duty Tour Allowances (DTA) to their members, including lack of training and poor conditions of service.
Chairman, National Assembly Legislative Aides Forum, Salisu Zuru, presented the written demands of the aides to Gbajabiamila.
The Speaker, who said it was inexcusable not to pay workers since 2019, noted, “I believe that every labourer should be paid his wages. We are looking into it. While these things can be protracted, not paying wages of 2019 is inexcusable.
“We will look into it. I will just ask that you be patient. We plead for your understanding. We know there are financial constraints, but one thing I know is that this will be resolved amicably and your arrears will be paid.”
