Jubilations broke out at Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic in Aba on Monday following the announcement of staff promotion and salary arrears payment approval by Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti.
The polytechnic’s Rector, Dr. Christopher Okoro, made the announcement during his first-anniversary address at the institution’s auditorium.
Dr. Okoro revealed that Governor Otti had introduced a harmonized promotion scheme, aimed at addressing longstanding injustices in staff promotions caused by previous administrations. He emphasized that the move was taken in the spirit of equity and justice to ensure fairness for all employees.
Okoro also revealed that Governor Otti had abolished notional promotions and recalled that the last promotion with financial benefits at the institution took place between 2008 and 2012.
This meant that staff members had been stuck on the same salary scale for nearly two decades.
In addition, the governor approved the payment of salary arrears for staff disengaged by past administrations.
“I have with me the official approval from the governor, and I want to share part of it with you,” Dr. Okoro announced.
“His Excellency has approved that all promotions from 2008 to 2025 be harmonised in the spirit of equity and justice. He has also abolished the notional promotion system.”
He praised the governor’s commitment to the institution’s welfare, stating,
“Without me telling you, you already know what the governor is capable of. He is a leader who believes in doing what is right and prioritises our well-being.”
Dr Okoro expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for fulfilling his promises to uplift the institution, describing his actions as the beginning of a healing process for staff who had suffered years of injustice.
“The healing process at this polytechnic has begun, thanks to His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti (OFR),” he said.
“It could only be him, and we know more positive changes are on the way. That is why many of us have resolved to work hand in hand with him. We are happy, and we will continue to support him, serve the state, and do what is right.
The Rector urged a seamless implementation of the approved policies, calling on those responsible to act with integrity and ensure that the governor’s vision was not undermined.
“This will go a long way to heal this old wound, and I want to appeal to our conscience because some of these processes will pass through you as head of departments, as a dean of a school, and as a director. Please do not thwart the actions of his Excellency; do not distort the good intentions of His Excellency.
“If someone is not qualified, the person is not qualified; you encourage the person to look at his/her deficiencies and advise the person in love so the person will learn and become better.
“The governor has solved this age-long problem of nearly 20 years; let us not by ourselves go back to this problem again.”
On September 13, 2024, staff members of the polytechnic were seen in viral social media videos jubilating after Governor Otti approved payment of their 36-month ‘salary arrears.
The polytechnic, which had been in a state of near-collapse, is experiencing a revival under the new Rector.
Post A Comment: