Abia State Governor Alex Otti has ruled out the reinstatement of workers disengaged from the state’s civil service in 2011 and 2012, saying they will instead receive their outstanding entitlements due to the number of years that have passed since their exit from service.

The governor disclosed this on Wednesday in Aba while responding to an appeal by members of the Imo community in Abia State during a civic reception organised in honour of him and his wife, Priscilla Otti, under the auspices of Ndị Imo in Abia.

Otti explained that many of the affected workers have exceeded the age at which they can reasonably return to active service, making the payment of their benefits the most appropriate solution.

He said he had already directed that the affected workers be paid their entitlements, noting that the directive was not limited to any particular ethnic group but applied to all eligible beneficiaries.

According to the governor, some former workers who were disengaged about 15 years ago may still need to complete the verification process before receiving their payments.

Otti also reiterated his administration’s commitment to equal treatment for all residents, stressing that his government does not discriminate based on state of origin.

He assured residents that his administration would continue to pursue policies aimed at promoting development and improving the welfare of people living in the state.

Earlier at the event, members of the Imo community resident in Abia endorsed Otti for a second term in office and pledged their support for his re-election.

Representing Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma, the Special Adviser on Political Matters, Perry Opara, said the reception reflected the confidence of Imo indigenes in Otti’s leadership and urged members of the community to continue living peacefully in Abia State.

The chairman of the occasion, Chibuike Achigbu, commended the governor’s performance in office and also praised the First Lady, Priscilla Otti, for her support to the administration.

In his remarks, Otti thanked Governor Uzodinma for identifying with him and assured him that Imo indigenes residing in Abia would continue to enjoy equal treatment and protection under his administration.

(Photo Credit: The Guardian Nigeria News)