Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, intervened in the long-standing struggles of 67 security guards at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) Teaching Hospital.
His unexpected decision to increase their monthly pay from N18,800 to N80,000 was met with thunderous cheers from workers and attendees.
The breakthrough came when one of the guards, given a chance to speak during an event at the hospital, broke down in tears.
He narrated how they had protested as far back as June 2021 without success.
“On the 1st of June, 2021, we raised placards, asking you to help us,” he pleaded.
“We’ve been here before Otunba Alao Akala and before the work of this place is completed.
We are not staff but indigenes of Oyo State, please help us, we are suffering. I have a family and three children; my age is fast running out. Please help us, your excellency.”
Governor Makinde, visibly moved by the appeal, asked how much they were earning.
When the guard responded, “N18,800,” a hospital representative explained that they were outsourced staff, with the outsourcing firm being paid N27,000 per guard.
However, the governor wasted no time in announcing a direct solution.
“I can solve the problem right away by saying that all 67 should be converted directly to ad-hoc workers and you will get N80,000 every month from the first of October,” Makinde declared.
The announcement instantly changed the mood at the event.
The crowd erupted in jubilation, while the guards who had moments earlier spoken in tears were seen rejoicing.
The governor’s decision not only quadrupled their wages but also restored dignity to workers who had struggled for recognition.
Moreover, the move was significant in light of their years of neglect.
The security officers had been working under poor pay despite being critical to the hospital’s safety.
Many residents of Oyo State have since praised the governor for addressing the matter directly rather than delaying with bureaucracy.
