Tragic! Local Govt Worker Slumps and Dies During Protest over Non-Payment of Salaries in Edo

Some of the Protesters on Wednesday

A tragic incident occurred on Wednesday during the protest by the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Edo state chapter.

One of the protesters, Peter Ayewoh, from Esan North-East local government council slumped and died as they were protesting against the refusal of the state government to pay salaries of local government workers.

The workers, all dressed in black, blocked sections of the busy Ring Road holding placards and chanting anti-government songs while lamenting their plight.

According to the protesters, no Edo local government worker has been paid in 2016, with the worst hit being Egor LGA workers who are being owed 18-months salaries.

Following his death, protesters boiled in anger and some made moves to attack a campaign vehicle belonging to the All Progressive Congress (APC)governorship candidate, Godwin Obaseki, but were restrained by their leaders.

During the protest, labour leaders and members took turns to condemn the actions of the Edo state governor, Adams Oshiomhole, a former union president.

“He came from us but he has used and dumped us,” said Edward Young Ilenikhena, the state chairman of NULGE, to the protesters. “But there will be no retreat, no surrender until he pays us.”

According to the workers, Gov. Oshiomhole said he will not pay them because local councils in the state are autonomous and not his responsibility. They also claimed he accused them of corruption.