By Banji Ayoola
A former spokesman of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, RUGIPO, Mr S. O. Ojo has advised the Ondo State Government to reverse its suspension of union activities and leadership at the Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, RUGIPO.
Besides, in an interview with The Radiance on Thursday, he advised the government to withdraw its threat to apply the “No work, no pay” rule on the striking workers who fail to resume duties immediately as it directed.
According to Ojo, now a consultant,”Government should revisit its decision to pave way for industrial harmony” at the state owned institution.
In fact, he faulted the suspension of union activities and leadership in the institution by the Government.
The State Government had on Wednesday taken the measures and threatened to apply the “No work, no pay” rule on the institution’s striking workers who fail to resume academic and administrative activities immediately as it directed.
The striking workers had embarked on the industrial action to press home their demand for the implementation of the N70,000 national minimum wage for them by the state government, the owner of the institution.
Ojo described the government action as absurd saying, “It can never be a right step.
“There are rules to a game.it is absurd because it is the trade union that can do so.
“In the first instance, the agitation for #70,000 minimum wage against #18,000 in this harsh economy is desirable.
“The protest to achieve this aim has been peaceful and resolving it should be amicable and handled with understanding.
“This action in this century where democracy is the style of governance is oppressive.
“Government should revisit its decision to pave way for industrial harmony.”
Ojo said, “A worker sincerely deserves his wage.
“It is not a favour but a responsibility.It is in this part of the continent that leaders treat followers as slaves.
“Is it a thing of celebration that workers who had been denied their legitimate earning for several months are now just beingcpaid?
“If you build a bridge, you celebrate.If you construct a road, you celebrate, then what is the essence of governance?
“My brother, Africa as a continent needs deliverance so also our State and our nation.
Ondo to enforce “No work, no pay” against striking RUGIPO workers who fail to resume
