PASAN Suspends Planned Strike Following Governor Aiyedatiwa’s Swift Response to Demands
By Elizabeth Oyeniwa
The Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), Ondo State chapter, has suspended its proposed industrial action following the swift intervention of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who promptly approved their key demands.
Speaking with The Hope, the Chairperson of PASAN, Mrs. Hellen Olorunfemi, commended the Governor for his immediate approval of the union’s request regarding the implementation of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS).
The development sparked relief and jubilation among parliamentary staff in the state, who hailed the Governor as a responsive leader and described him as a true “Omoluwabi.”
According to Mrs. Olorunfemi, the union had initially planned to embark on a strike to press home their demands. However, during their visit to the Governor earlier in the day, he gave approval for the implementation on the spot.
“We tabled our demands before the Governor and, to the glory of God, he gave instant approval.
He directed the Head of Service and all concerned officers to immediately prepare the necessary implementation table so the process can begin without delay,” she said.
The PASAN Chairperson explained that the major issue revolved around the implementation of CONLESS, a salary structure already enjoyed by legislative staff in most South-West states. She noted that Ondo State had been the only one left behind in this regard.
“Lagos and other states have long implemented this structure. We are happy that Ondo State is finally joining,” she added.
Mrs. Olorunfemi also appreciated the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Chief Olamide Oladiji, for his unwavering support during the struggle. She credited the collaborative efforts of both the Executive and Legislative arms of government for the peaceful resolution.
With the Governor’s directive already being implemented by the office of the Accountant General, PASAN has officially suspended all planned strike actions.
Speaking on the development, the Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Chief Olamide Oladiji, confirmed that the long-standing matter concerning the peculiar salary structure for PASAN members has been resolved.
According to him, discussions around the salary structure began in 2023 and had involved several rounds of negotiations.
On the issue of legislative autonomy, the Speaker disclosed that the matter had also been discussed with the Governor, adding that efforts are ongoing to address and resolve it. He expressed confidence that members will soon begin to see tangible progress on the autonomy issue.
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