From Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
The Cross River State Government has come under increasing pressure to address the plight of workers at the Obudu Mountain Resort (OMR), who have been left unpaid for over a year.
Despite numerous pleas and petitions, the workers’ salaries, wages, and allowances remain outstanding.
According to documents obtained by our correspondent, the workers’ petitions were officially received by the office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) on May 14, 2024.
However, no concrete action has been taken to resolve their grievances.
The petition, dated May 10, 2024, revealed that the workers have not been paid for 14 months.
Many have struggled to make ends meet, despite their dedicated service to the prestigious resort.
Investigations conducted by our correspondent revealed that while the state governor has released funds for salary arrears, a significant number of workers, particularly those who were transferred to their respective local government areas under former Governor Ben Ayade’s directive, have been excluded from the payment exercise.
One of the most distressing cases highlighted in the petition is that of Prince Godfrey Ichile, who went blind while still in active service.
Despite his condition, Ichile has yet to receive his unpaid salary or gratuity.
The workers are calling on Governor Sen. Bassey Edet Otu’s administration to honor the “People First Mantra” and address their plight.
They argue that the exclusion from payment is unjust and violates their rights after years of dedicated service to the state.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, the workers’ plight raises serious concerns about the state government’s commitment to the welfare of its citizens.
It remains to be seen whether Governor Otu will take decisive action to resolve this long-standing issue and ensure justice is served.
