The Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers’ Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), BCOS Chapter, has condemned the persistent BCOS salary delay affecting staff.
At its Congress meeting held on 18th September 2025 at the RATTAWU Hall, members expressed deep frustration over irregular wages. They described the situation as a gross injustice to workers who remain dedicated despite mounting financial hardship.
From the start of the meeting, the BCOS salary delay dominated discussions. Members shared painful experiences of unpaid arrears and inconsistent salaries. They argued that excuses from management can no longer justify the continuous suffering of employees.
A Lingering Crisis of Confidence
The Chairman explained that although Governor Seyi Makinde approved the new minimum wage in January 2025, BCOS subvention only increased from June.
This funding gap, according to management, caused the BCOS salary delay and left workers struggling to survive.
Management promised that salaries would become stable by December 2025. But members questioned this assurance, recalling similar promises in the past that were never kept.
Workers Groaning Under Hardship
The Congress outlined how the BCOS salary delay has affected members:
- Families unable to meet daily responsibilities.
- Rising debts from loans and money lenders.
- Declining staff morale and productivity.
- Loss of faith in BCOS management.
Many members lamented that irregular salaries had pushed them into financial crises. They argued that management had normalized excuses while workers carried the real burden.
The Congress further condemned the hardship imposed on pensioners, whose deductions are not being remitted. This, they said, adds insult to injury, as retirees who already face challenges of old age and ill health are being denied what rightfully belongs to them.
One of the most contentious revelations was the non-remittance of deductions made on staff salaries to the Ministry of Agriculture. These deductions were for the repayment of rice and other commodities collected during festive periods.
Congress members expressed outrage that while workers faithfully endured deductions from their pay, BCOS management failed to forward the funds, thereby tarnishing the integrity of both the staff and the union.
Union Resolves to Press Harder
RATTAWU members condemned BCOS management for neglecting staff welfare.
The Congress resolved to intensify dialogue with the Finance Department and hold the Executive Chairman accountable.
Union leaders were also mandated to provide regular updates so that members are not left in uncertainty.
Speakers stressed that salary payment is the responsibility of the State Government and BCOS management—not the union. The union’s duty is to negotiate and advocate, not absorb blame for inefficiency.
Strengthening Union Identity
Beyond the BCOS salary delay, members discussed strategies to strengthen the union’s presence.
They supported branding the BCOS fence with union messages, boosting online engagement through Facebook and YouTube, and producing newsletters or bulletins to keep workers informed.
These steps, they noted, would not only strengthen RATTAWU BCOS but also support the station in reaching wider audiences.
Debates on Loans and Commodities
The issue of loans and commodity distribution sparked heated debate.
Some members opposed it, warning about the risks of loan defaults. Others suggested involving the BCOS Cooperative Society or seeking management’s support to enforce repayments.
In the end, the Congress agreed to set up a committee to study the idea and propose a safe framework.
Accountability and Respect for Leadership
Other matters raised included the weakened state of the BCOS Cooperative Society and the need for proactive welfare planning.
Members also emphasized respect for union leadership and insisted that Congress decisions must be binding on all.
The issue of account signatories was noted as urgent for transparency. Although unresolved, the Executive Committee was directed to finalize it before the next meeting.
A Call for Urgent Action
The Congress ended with prayers for unity and progress. Yet the mood was one of determination rather than relief.
Members made it clear that patience is running out. Excuses about subvention gaps cannot continue while workers’ welfare is ignored.
The BCOS salary delay has become a crisis of trust. If left unresolved, it threatens not only staff welfare but also the productivity and morale of the corporation itself.
Conclusion
The resolutions of RATTAWU BCOS send a strong message: workers will not fold their arms while their dignity is undermined.
The BCOS salary delay is not a minor inconvenience. It is a direct attack on workers’ survival and welfare.
RATTAWU has vowed to remain united, proactive, and firm until BCOS management and the Oyo State Government deliver on their responsibility to pay salaries promptly and consistently.
About The Author
