The Delta State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has criticized the Delta State Government's decision to set the minimum wage at N70,000 for state workers.
The party noted that despite receiving over N50 billion in monthly federal allocations, the APC labelled this decision as a glaring act of "wickedness" and a demonstration of insensitivity to the economic hardships faced by workers.
In a phone interview with our correspondent from Asaba, the Delta APC’s Publicity Secretary, Valentine Onojeghuo Esq., stated that the N70,000 minimum wage falls far short of addressing the escalating cost of living in the state. He noted that rampant inflation has continuously driven up the prices of basic goods and services, making it difficult for workers to meet their daily needs.
Onojeghuo further criticized the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for failing to prioritize the welfare of state workers, especially given Delta State's high federal allocations compared to other states.
"This government of Sheriff Oborevwori is not only incompetent and clueless, but clueless has added wickedness to the mix. How can Delta State which receives over 50 billion monthly allocations which is twice the amount of 5 states combined, despite the earlier promise to pay N85,000 now renege and decide to pay a mere N70,000 as minimum wage, whereas states like Lagos and Rivers with fewer allocations, are paying N85,000 as minimum wage. The Oborevwori administration will not use the huge allocation to develop the State, are now refusing to bring succour to workers in the State in severe economic hardship".
The Delta APC has repeatedly accused the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)-led government of poor management of the substantial federal allocations, including funds from the 13% derivation formula.
The party expressed its dissatisfaction with the slow pace of infrastructural development, stating that the state’s revenue should have transformed cities like Asaba and Warri into economic hubs. Instead, these cities remain underdeveloped, with infrastructure that does not reflect the state's substantial income. "With what Delta receives, the state should resemble a mini-Dubai. Yet Asaba and Warri are filled with tricycles (Keke) and look more like glorified shanty towns."
Onojeghuo also warned that the decision to pay such a low wage would demoralize the workforce, leading to decreased productivity and potentially encouraging corruption within the public sector.
He urged the Delta State Government to reconsider its stance and implement a wage structure that meets the needs of workers during these challenging times, arguing that the N70,000 minimum wage would stifle economic growth and fail to stimulate the local economy.
He also called for a review of the decision to ensure the state's workforce can adequately support themselves amidst the ongoing economic challenges.
