An organization based in Benin, the Edo N’Okpa Movement, has expressed skepticism towards the recent increase in salary proposed by Governor Godwin Obaseki, suggesting it may be an attempt to sway voters in favor of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the upcoming governorship election on September 21.
The group is advising Edo workers against trading their votes before the crucial governorship election and is cautioning the youth to be vigilant, as politicians may seek their involvement in promoting violence during the election period.
In a statement released in Benin on Wednesday, the group criticized the N70,000 minimum wage announced by the state government, labeling it as a mere electoral ploy.
Emovon Osaretin, the national convener of the group, accused Governor Obaseki of employing similar tactics in the past, such as showcasing road projects with heavy machinery shortly before elections, only to remove them post-election.
Osaretin expressed doubts about the sincerity of the new minimum wage, referring to it as another political gimmick which should not be commended by the state workers and residents.
He raised concerns about the feasibility of the N70,000 minimum wage, particularly highlighting the government’s failure to effectively implement the previous N40,000 minimum wage, resulting in many workers facing up to six-month salary arrears.
Osaretin speculated on the motives behind the wage increase, insinuating that it could be a tactic to complicate matters for the incoming governor, especially given the belief that the PDP’s chosen candidate, Asue Ighodalo, may not win the election in Edo State.
Furthermore, the group urged Governor Obaseki to address the prolonged delay in completing the Benin-Ugo-Abraka Road, which runs from Sakponba Road to Abraka and has been under construction since 2016.