Comrade Sola Adigun, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress in Ekiti State, has refuted rumors of a disagreement between the union and Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji regarding the new minimum wage implementation.
In a statement released in Ado Ekiti, Adigun described the claims as false and a product of misinformation aimed at creating confusion among workers and the public.
The rumor, which circulated on social media platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook, alleged that representatives of Ekiti workers had walked out of a meeting with Governor Oyebanji regarding the minimum wage discussions.
Adigun, however, categorically refuted these claims.
“The attention of the Trade Union Congress, Ekiti State, has been drawn to a statement circulating on some sections of social media, alleging that Ekiti workers’ representatives walked out on Governor Biodun Oyebanji during a meeting on the minimum wage implementation.”
”We wish to categorically state that such claims are untrue, fallacious, and a mere fabrication, a product of the maker’s imagination,” the statement read.
Adigun clarified that negotiations between the union and the state government began smoothly on Friday, following an initial meeting held on Wednesday, September 4.
He emphasized that there has been no disagreement or trade dispute with the government regarding the wage talks, making the claims of a walkout illogical.
The TUC chairman praised Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to workers’ welfare, noting that since assuming office, the governor has demonstrated a genuine interest in addressing the concerns of labor unions.
Adigun also expressed confidence that the governor would implement the new minimum wage as soon as the necessary adjustments were agreed upon.
“We want to declare unequivocally that Governor Biodun Oyebanji has, since the inauguration of his administration, demonstrated genuine commitment to workers’ welfare, and we have no reason to doubt his willingness to implement the new minimum wage once the committee arrives at the necessary adjustments,” he stated.
Adigun urged the public to disregard the misleading information and assured workers that the union remains committed to constructive engagement with the state government.
He also promised to keep the public informed on the progress of the negotiations as they move forward.
The labor leader reaffirmed the union’s dedication to prioritizing the welfare of Ekiti workers and ensuring a positive outcome from the ongoing discussions on the new minimum wage.