Local government councillors in Ondo State have threatened to embark on a mass protest over what they described as poor welfare conditions, including low salaries and the absence of official vehicles, nearly 18 months after assuming office.
In a press statement made available to journalists, the councillors expressed frustration over what they termed “pitiable and undeserving” treatment, noting that their remuneration and working conditions do not reflect the state’s status as an oil-producing region in the Niger Delta.
The councillors unanimously resolved to stage a peaceful demonstration to press home their demands for improved welfare packages, including a salary increase and provision of official cars.
They alleged that the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Amidu Takuro, had shown “deliberate indifference” to their plight by failing to present their requests to Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa.
According to the statement, several attempts by the councillors to secure a meeting with the governor were allegedly thwarted, prompting the decision to consider a peaceful protest.
“We will now resort to peaceful demonstration to press home our demands,” the statement read. “All our efforts to meet with our amiable governor have been sabotaged, hence the need for this action.”
The councillors compared their situation with counterparts in neighbouring states, citing recent improvements in welfare packages elsewhere. They noted that councillors in Ekiti State reportedly received a 75 per cent salary increase, while those in Ogun State and Oyo State benefitted from salary hikes of up to 300 per cent alongside official vehicles.
They stressed that, as grassroots representatives, the demands and expectations placed on them are significant, yet their current earnings fall short of supporting their responsibilities and personal livelihoods.
While reaffirming their loyalty to Governor Aiyedatiwa, the councillors insisted that he may not be fully aware of their situation, alleging that efforts to reach him had been obstructed by officials within the system.
“There is nothing honourable about elected councillors trekking and struggling to sustain their families,” the statement added, warning that they would no longer remain silent on issues affecting their welfare.
The statement was signed by Felix Arowosegbe, Public Relations Officer of the Councillors’ Forum.
