The Mazi Organisation (TMO) has raised doubts over Governor Hope Uzodimma’s announcement of an increase in Imo workers’ minimum wage from ₦70,000 to ₦104,000, insisting that without transparency and a clear implementation plan, the proclamation will amount to another failed promise.
In a statement signed by its spokesman, Cajetan Duke and made available to this newspaper, TMO said attempts to verify the details of the governor’s announcement had been impossible.
“However, attempts to verify the details or a breakdown of the governor’s proclamation have been difficult, as there is yet, no officially endorsed release by the Secretary to the Government of Imo State or the Commissioner for Information, Strategy and Public Orientation. This, again, has raised doubts about the sincerity and feasibility of the implementation.”part of the statement read.
The group noted that workers have grown weary from repeated disappointments.
“Without doubt, Imo workers are obviously tired of being told what sounds good on paper but never reaches their pockets.” the group noted.
It further lamented that the announcement was not met with jubilation.
“Most workers received it with mixed reactions, reflecting deep-seated weariness from repeated failed promises and half-implemented policies.” part of the statement read.
TMO alleged that arrears of salaries and gratuities dating back to 2020 remain unpaid, while some promoted workers are still denied due increments.
“In a standardized system, salaries and pensions are tabulated with all accruals clearly stated. Sadly, in Imo State, the reverse is the case, creating opacity and confusion rather than transparency.” TMO statement said in part.
The group issued a five-point demand to the Imo government, including full details of the wage increase, a tabulated implementation framework, transparent disbursement of the announced ₦16 billion gratuity fund, and full payment of arrears.
“We equally appeal to the Government of Imo State to show compassion and empathy towards the plight of the suffering masses, particularly civil servants and pensioners, who are the backbone of the state. The time has come to comprehensively improve their working conditions and restore their dignity.” it emphasized
Reaffirming its stance, TMO said: “The Mazi Organisation restates the avowed commitment of our leader, Dr. Chima Amadi, to the welfare of Imo workers and retirees, who gave their youthful energy and strength to the service of the state. For Dr. Amadi, it is a burning desire to see a motivated, dignified, and living workforce that will effectively drive the state’s bureaucracy and policy implementation.”
