Federal Government Releases Withheld Allocations to Rivers Sole Administrator
Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has confirmed that the federal government has released the withheld monthly allocations to the local government areas in the state.
Ibas made the announcement on Friday during a meeting with the Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) in Port Harcourt, assuring them that steps would be taken to ensure the prompt payment of workers’ salaries.
The former Chief of Naval Staff referred to the meeting as a critical moment in the collective effort to restore stability and progress to the state. He expressed concern over the ongoing economic challenges in the Niger Delta region, where despite the abundance of natural resources, the local population continues to face hardship.
Ibas acknowledged the struggles caused by delayed salary payments to workers in local government areas, reassuring the HLGAs that the withheld funds had now been released and that his administration would take necessary actions to ensure salaries are paid without further delays.
He emphasized that strict financial accountability would be enforced across the local government areas and directed all areas to submit their wage bills, along with supporting documents, through the office of the Head of Service. Ibas made it clear that his administration would not tolerate financial mismanagement and would take decisive action against any negligence in handling public funds.
The Sole Administrator also noted that good governance is not merely a slogan but a commitment to improving the situation in the state, with plans to make significant changes in the next six months.
Furthermore, Ibas highlighted the need for collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies to bolster security at the grassroots level.
In response, Clifford Paul, the President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and administrator of Port Harcourt Local Government Area, expressed appreciation for the federal government’s decision to appoint Ibas, citing his competence and leadership qualities.
Paul pledged his support for peace and stability in the state, urging the Sole Administrator to prioritize the welfare of workers. He pointed out that local government workers were currently owed two months’ salary, but expressed hope that with the release of the withheld allocations, the situation would improve. He also encouraged stakeholders to use this moment to rebuild trust and foster unity in Rivers State.
