Gov. Otu makes u-turn, reinstates 3,000 LG workers in Cross River

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has approved the reinstatement of about 3,000 local government workers who were previously removed from the state payroll.

The decision was reached on Friday, October 2, 2026, during a meeting between the governor and leaders of organised labour at the State Executive Council Chambers in Calabar.

The meeting was attended by representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP).

Discussions centred on workers’ welfare, recruitment, promotions, salary harmonisation, pensioners’ entitlements and other issues affecting industrial relations in the state.

During the meeting, labour leaders appealed to Otu to reconsider the disengagement of workers who had already spent about two years in service.

They argued that many of the affected workers had built their livelihoods around their employment and would face significant hardship following their removal from the payroll.

Responding to the appeal, the governor acknowledged the potential impact of the loss of income on the affected workers and their families.

Otu explained that the government’s earlier intervention in the public service was intended to address irregularities, restore due process and ensure that appointments and remuneration were based on relevant qualifications and established standards.

The governor also stressed the need to maintain a fair and productive public service in which employment opportunities are accessible to qualified individuals.

He acknowledged the financial challenges facing the state, including inherited liabilities and recurring obligations, but expressed optimism that improved revenue generation and prudent financial management would enable the government to meet its commitments.

Otu further assured the labour leaders that other outstanding issues, including promotions, salary harmonisation and pensioners’ welfare, would receive attention after the relevant documents and official records had been reviewed.

The meeting subsequently ended with the governor’s approval for the restoration of about 3,000 affected local government workers to the state payroll.

The decision is expected to provide relief to the affected workers and their families, while discussions on other labour-related matters continue between the state government and organised labour.

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