Comrade Bayo Titilola Sodo, Special Adviser on Labour Matters to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, discussed recent developments concerning the new minimum wage and the state’s readiness to implement it.
Sodo clarified that while the new minimum wage law has been signed, the specific adjustments for various salary grades and steps in the public service are still pending. These details are expected to be determined by federal authorities, who will then provide the necessary tables to guide state negotiations. The state government will engage with labor unions once this framework is provided.
Addressing the current situation, in an interview with WesternLifeNewsNG in Ibadan, the Oyo state capital, Sodo acknowledged that no specific adjustments have yet been communicated.
He however expressed confidence that labour’s proactive stance and public awareness will expedite the process.
On the relationship between labour and the Oyo State government, Sodo highlighted a generally positive and robust interaction, though he noted occasional disagreements. He assured that any differences are managed constructively, avoiding conflict.
Regarding the state’s ability to sustain the new minimum wage, Sodo expressed optimism, attributing it to the governor’s positive disposition towards labor matters. He also anticipates a review of pensions in light of the new minimum wage, emphasizing that pensioners should benefit similarly.
Discussing pensioners’ gratuities, Sodo stated that the government has consistently paid gratuities monthly for the past five years. Recently, the amount allocated for these payments was increased to 500 million Naira per month, which he hopes will expedite the settlement of outstanding gratuities.
Reflecting on local government autonomy, Sodo, who previously championed this cause as NULGE President, acknowledged that the process to secure autonomy was unconventional but effective. He expressed confidence that the autonomy would be sustained despite potential managerial challenges faced by local government chairmen.
Sodo addressed concerns about the local government chairmen’s recent decision to withdraw from the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), stating that this move does not impact the Supreme Court’s judgment on autonomy.
When asked about his own political ambitions, Sodo was non-committal but confirmed his affiliation with the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
He indicated that while he values public service, financial constraints may impact his potential candidacy for elective positions.
