• Reviews Strike With General Managers
• Reiterates Dialogue To Resolve Grievances
Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso visited the State’s broadcasting agencies to see the managers at work. The visit followed a three-day strike by the workers who are pushing to be put on the government main payroll. Omotoso, who was accompanied by Permanent Secretary, Olumide Sogunle, met with General Managers of LTV, Radio Lagos/Eko FM and Lagos Traffic Radio.
Omotoso expressed displeasure that despite his efforts to ensure that the stations got an enduring solution to their requests, the Unions disparaged the commitment and went ahead to shut down the broadcast outfits for three days.
His words: “The world has gone beyond the stage where strikes are perceived as better options for conflict resolution than dialogue. After engaging the union leaders in frank discussions about their plight, they shunned all reasonable options.”
Noting that with focus on credible and timely news broadcast, innovation and hard work, media organisations increase visibility and followership, the Commissioner advised the General Managers to reorientate their teams on the benefits of being part of breaking local and international news at all times.
“How on earth should LTV and our other stations not be part of breaking news within Lagos State on the basis of a strike? Our stations remain the most credible source of information for verifying news about all arms of the Lagos State Government,” Omotoso said.
He urged the leadership of the broadcast stations to explore creative ways of attracting patronage to their organisations, just as he maintained that all staff must have identifiable roles they play within the establishments.
“We will continue to present the grievances of your staff before the Lagos State Executive Council”, the Commissioner said.
Responding, the General Manager of Radio Lagos/Eko FM, Mr. Jide Lawal, expressed appreciation to the Commissioner for his support to all the broadcast outfits whenever the need arises.
He pledged that the stations would continuously appraise their operations for growth in revenue and professionalism.
AA/TMS/KO
