‘Good interpersonal relations key to harmonious industrial relations’

The Ogun State deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Reuben Abati, has said good interpersonal relationship is key to a smooth industrial relation with labour unions.

Abati spoke at the weekend in Abeokuta, the state capital, at the governorship debate organised by the state chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

The former chairman of The Guardian editorial board noted that to maintain a harmonious relationship between labour and government, justice and honesty must be the underpinning principles.

He said since the welfare of the people is the foundation of all labour and government activities, they must do all within their powers to avoid unnecessary rancour.

Abati began the session by reading out the covenant of the Kashamu-Abati ticket with Ogun State civil/public officers.

The document reads: “Sequel to the general undertaking I took regarding my commitment to complete and full remittance of local governments’ allocation, I wish to further state as follows:

“Since transparency is one of the cardinal principles that shall guide the policies of my administration, I am irrevocably committed to the prompt payment/remittance of cooperative deductions.

“All appointments in the service shall be on merit, and promotions shall be as and when due.

“For career progression, civil/public officers will be encouraged to get to the peak of their careers in line with statutory guidelines.

“Our administration will ensure compliance with statutory provisions in the discipline of workers and where any perceived injustice exists, it will be reviewed.

“Our administration will review the Contributory Pension Scheme with a view to making it more workers-friendly.”