Nduka Obaigbena Sacks 55% of THISDAY Newspaper Lagos Staff

 

The Chairman and Editor-in-Chief of THISDAY Media Group/ARISE TV Networks, Nduka Obaigbena, has sacked more than half of the THISDAY Lagos workforce.
Obaigbena, in a memo dated February 23, 2016 forwarded to senior management staff of the newspaper, said all staff whose names were not listed therein should have their salaries stopped and considered as ex-workers in the company.

The memo was addressed to Eniola Bello, Kayode Komolafe, Emmanuel Efeni, Ijeoma Nwogwugwu, Tokunbo Adedoja and Shaka Momodu.

Obaigbena’s action was said to have followed the attendance he took when he did what he termed “spot check” at the Lagos office of the newspaper

It was gathered that Obaigbena arrived at the office on Tuesday at about 2pm and left at 7pm.

His letter with the Subject VERY IMPORTANT STAFF NOTICE, reads  

“Dear All: Following a continuous and continuing spot check which climaxed today on LAGOS staff on duty and working, please find below a list of bonafide NON–EDITORIAL LAGOS STAFF of THISDAY NEWSPAPERS.

“The spot check will continue in ALL THISDAY locations.

“Those not on the list below cease to be staff of the company except they show with documentary evidence why they were not, and have not been at work.

“Editorial Staff have to show work with proof of stories filed and published tonight.

“Therefore only those listed below will be on the next payroll. If not listed, please conclude your disengagement process with the Admin department.​

It was gathered that staff usually stay away from office for two reasons.

One was the issue of outstanding salaries. The second was that due to an ongoing renovation work in the office complex, there are no chairs for staff.

After Obiagbena’s surprise visit, head of units in the Editorial Department were directed by their Editors to compile the list of stories sent by reporters under them on the day in question.