The Delta State chapters of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have sharply criticized Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for failing to appoint substantive permanent secretaries in the state civil service.
Speaking jointly at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration in Asaba, NLC chairman Goodluck Ofobruku and TUC chairman Wilson Asekutu described the continued reliance on officers acting in those roles as a violation of established civil service norms.
They argued that appointing individuals merely to function as permanent secretaries is alien to the traditions of the service, creating uncertainty and eroding institutional memory. This practice, they said, undermines the merit-based progression that sustains a robust civil service.
The union leaders also expressed alarm over the plight of retirees under the contributory pension scheme, noting that many are struggling to meet basic needs due to meager monthly pensions. They urged the state government to take compassionate steps to alleviate their suffering, asserting that a society that honors its retirees boosts the morale of its active workforce.
On the theme of the celebration, “Insecurity and poverty are the bane of decent work,” the leaders stressed that no economy can thrive where insecurity persists. They pointed out that insecurity has disrupted farming, trade, education, and business, and placed workers in harm’s way. They called for intelligence-driven security strategies and community collaboration.
Poverty, they added, is a barrier to opportunity that weakens the workforce and fuels social tension. They demanded fair wages, safe working conditions, social protection, and sustainable jobs, especially for young people. Supporting small and medium enterprises and expanding social protection systems were among their other recommendations.
Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme, who represented the governor at the event, reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening the civil service and improving workers’ welfare.