The Lagos State Waste Management Authority (LAWMA) has clarified its position on the unpaid salary of street sweepers in view of the recent pockets of protests and agitations over the issue. Most recent was a viral video on social media of a sweeper appealing to Governor Sanwo-Olu to intervened in their 3 months unpaid salary.
A statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of LAWMA, Mr. Ibrahim Odumboni, the sweepers are directly engaged by the contractors of the Agency, who are also responsible for their monthly payments and upkeep.
While noting that the contractual agreement only exists between the Authority and the Contractors, Odumboni maintained that the State government prioritises the welfare and wellbeing of its personnel and affiliate companies.
Odumboni revealed that LAWMA had made April payments to the contractors for disbursement to their staffers, adding that efforts are ongoing to ensure the prompt release of subsequent payments.
He emphasised that the Authority appreciates the great work the sweepers are rendering, especially during this COVID-19 pandemic, and gave an assurance that LAWMA will continue to ensure prompt payment to its various contractors.
He stated that “We appreciate everyone who has shown concern and understanding of our efforts in ensuring a consistent and sustainable cleaner Lagos in line with the T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda”, he added.
The Acting Managing Director, therefore, solicited for continued support and understanding, stressing that the issue of delayed payments will be discussed with the contractor and amicably resolved to the satisfaction of all stakeholders.
Lagos Panorama further investigation revealed that the Street Sweepers salary is N25,000 monthly. Five thousand naira less of the national 30,000 minimum wage while Lagos minimum wage announced by the state Governor was 35,000.
When we enquired from an official of the state government, the reason given was that the street sweepers are contract staff, so the contractors determined their salary.
About 10 Street Sweepers visited Lagos Panorama office during the lockdown in April to complain about their unpaid salary.
Our investigation with one of the contractor who stated that the delay in payment of the sweeper’s salary was due to documentation process of new sweepers ongoing by the state government. He noted that as soon as the process is concluded the sweepers salary will be paid.
