The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) has made a passionate appeal to Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, urging him to consider the plight of thousands of ad-hoc staff who were not successful in the recently concluded recruitment exercise for the state’s local government service.
A statement personally signed by the Oyo State NULGE President, Comrade Ayobami Adeogun, on Saturday February 8, the union expressed profound gratitude to Governor Makinde for his commitment to the welfare of local government workers.
The statement acknowledged the governor’s role in approving the conversion process, which led to the issuance of employment letters to many deserving workers.
However, NULGE highlighted that while the Local Government Service Commission declared over 2,700 vacancies, only 1,591 ad-hoc staff were successful, leaving nearly 1,200 vacancies unfilled.
The union added that about 3,500 other ad-hoc staff members remain in uncertainty, despite their years of dedicated service.
According to Comrade Adeogun, “These individuals across all departments have played a crucial role in ensuring the smooth operation of grassroots governance, working under challenging conditions.
“Many have served as local vigilantes, safeguarding lives and properties against security threats such as kidnapping and banditry, yet they continue to lack the benefits of permanent employment.”
The union stressed the adverse impact of returning these workers to the unemployment market after years of service, noting that their exclusion from the conversion exercise should not mark the end of their journey in the system.
“We implore His Excellency to extend his well-known compassion and fairness by providing a window of opportunity for these workers.
“Absorbing them into the system, as previously approved, would not only reward their dedication but also serve as an encouragement to others who continue to serve the state selflessly,” Comrade Adeogun stated.
NULGE reaffirmed its hope in Governor Makinde’s leadership and appealed for his intervention in ensuring that the affected workers are given another chance at permanent employment.
While affirming confidence in Makinde’s magnanimity, the Comrade Adeogun said the union now awaits the governor’s response to this appeal, hopeful that his administration will once again demonstrate its commitment to justice and the dignity of labor in Oyo State.