By Precious Oluwole
Staff of the Ondo State House of Assembly have showered encomiums on Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa following his approval of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure (CONLESS) for the Ondo State Legislative Service, describing the decision as timely, humane, and morale-boosting.
The approval came after a meeting between the Governor and the leadership of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), Ondo State Chapter, led by the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. (Chief) Olamide Oladiji.
The meeting was convened to address the lingering issue of the implementation of CONLESS, which had prompted PASAN to issue a strike notice scheduled to take effect the following day.
Also present at the meeting were the Clerk of the House, Barrister Benjamin Jaiyeola; the Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Phillips; and members of the State Executive Council.
According to those in attendance, expectations were initially geared towards the possible setting up of a committee to further review the matter. However, Governor Aiyedatiwa surprised participants with his swift and decisive response.
“If PASAN in other states are enjoying it, what stops us? Is that why you want to lock the gate? Let the Head of Service and the Commissioner for Finance work on this and pay them,” the Governor reportedly directed.
The pronouncement immediately brought relief and excitement to legislative staff, effectively averting the planned strike action. News of the approval spread rapidly within the Assembly complex, triggering spontaneous celebrations and expressions of gratitude across all cadres of staff.
Describing the development as more than a financial intervention, staff members said the approval represents a strong moral boost and a clear validation of their dedication to legislative service. From junior officers to senior administrators, many expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Governor and the leadership of the House.
One staff member succinctly captured the mood, saying, “This approval has not just changed our salaries; it has changed our hearts.”
The Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure is designed to align remuneration with the responsibilities of legislative staff, promote institutional independence, and enhance productivity within the legislative arm of government. Stakeholders noted that the reform underscores Governor Aiyedatiwa’s understanding that a motivated workforce is central to efficient governance and institutional stability.
The leadership style of the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji, was also widely commended for his consultative approach and effective engagement, which contributed to the swift resolution of the issue.
Observers believe the historic approval of CONLESS will leave a lasting legacy, set a positive precedent for future administrations, and reaffirm the principles of fairness, equity, and respect among the three arms of government.
With the new salary structure now in place, legislative staff have pledged renewed commitment to diligence, professionalism, and selfless service, as they collectively express gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for what they described as a profound statement of recognition and respect for the legislative institution.
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