Teachers’ Day: Otti praises Abia teachers’ show of fortitude despite salary arrears

Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in Abia state, Dr. Alex Otti, has commended Nigerian teachers for their sacrificial contributions towards building a better society.

Otti, specifically singled out public school teachers in Abia State for praise for the fortitude they have continued to exhibit in the discharge of their duty, despite being owed many months of salary arrears by the state government.

The frontline gubernatorial candidate, who through his Alex Otti Foundation (AOF) has given out scholarships to no fewer than 100 university students resident in Abia State, spoke while felicitating with Nigerian teachers on this year’s Teachers’ Day Celebration.

In a statement issued on his behalf by his media aide, Ferdinand Ekeoma, the celebrated former bank chief executive officer and renowned economist enthused that the commitment and contributions of Nigerian teachers to building a better society can never be over emphasised.

READ: We’re raising you as global citizens – Otti tells Scholarship recipients

“They do not only educate the society, they shape the character of citizens and inculcate the culture of civility, responsibility and decency in the society,” he said.

Speaking about the plight of teachers in Abia State, Otti said the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) led government in Abia has treated teachers, just like other workers in the state, with “disrespect and disdain” by failing to prioritise their welfare through regular payment of salaries and other entitlements, as well as provision of the enabling environment for them to discharge their duties effectively.

The governorship hopeful assured that as someone whose breakthrough and success in life was made possible by education, enabled by hard working teachers, he, as governor, would ensure that teachers in Abia are given their due and encouraged to do more toward the economic and social development of the state.

While praying God to bless and sustain Abia teachers, Otti admonished them to ensure they actively participate in the 2023 election to elect credible leaders who would not only have their interest at heart but implement policies that will impact positively on their welfare.