The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has announced the release of previously withheld local government allocations and assured workers that their salaries will be paid promptly. During a key meeting with Heads of Local Government Administrators in Port Harcourt, Ibas emphasized the importance of restoring stability and progress in the state.
Addressing the ongoing economic hardship in the Niger Delta, Ibas highlighted the paradox of the region’s vast natural resources, contrasting it with the persistent suffering of its people. “This is unacceptable,” he said, stressing the need for transformation, accountability, and a collective effort to bring about change.
A major concern raised by Ibas was the delay in salary payments to local government workers, a problem that has been impacting the livelihoods of many. Expressing empathy, he acknowledged the workers’ struggles, promising that the withheld allocations would now be disbursed and that salaries would be paid without further delay. However, he made it clear that his administration would enforce strict financial accountability moving forward.
The Sole Administrator, a retired vice admiral and former Chief of Naval Staff, instructed all local governments to submit their wage bills along with the necessary documentation through the office of the Head of Service. He stressed that his administration would not tolerate any form of financial mismanagement, vowing to scrutinize public funds and take appropriate action against any misuse.
Ibas reiterated that good governance is more than just a slogan, it is a commitment to changing the negative narrative in the state. He also called for enhanced collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies to improve grassroots security. “You must take the lead in ensuring security within your domains,” he urged the local government administrators.
In response, Clifford Paul, the President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and Administrator of Port Harcourt Local Government Area, praised Ibas for his leadership and the progress the state had made despite political challenges. He also acknowledged that local government workers were still owed two months’ salaries but expressed optimism now that the withheld allocations had been released.
Paul emphasized the importance of rebuilding trust and fostering unity in the state, pledging to support efforts aimed at peace and stability. He urged all stakeholders to seize the opportunity for meaningful development and to prioritize workers’ welfare in the process.
