The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Ibok-Ete Ibas, has announced the release of withheld Rivers local government allocations. He emphasized that this decision will help ensure the prompt payment of workers’ salaries across the state.
Speaking in a meeting with Heads of Local Government Administrators in Port Harcourt, Ibas highlighted the importance of this moment for restoring stability and progress in Rivers State. He expressed concern about the economic hardship faced by many in the Niger Delta, pointing out that despite the region’s wealth of natural resources, its people continue to suffer. “This is unacceptable,” he stated, calling for transformation and accountability.
The Sole Administrator specifically addressed the delays in salary payments, acknowledging the struggles of affected workers. “I feel the pain of the workers,” he said, assuring them the withheld Rivers local government allocations had been released and that his administration would ensure that salaries are paid without delay. He also emphasized that financial accountability will be strictly enforced moving forward.
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Ibas, who is a retired vice admiral and former Chief of Naval Staff, directed all local government areas to submit their wage bills, along with relevant documentation, through the office of the Head of Service. He made it clear that his administration will not tolerate financial recklessness, promising to scrutinize the handling of public funds and take action against any mismanagement.
“I want to make it clear that good governance is not just a slogan; it is a commitment to changing the negative narrative within the next six months,” he said. He also stressed the need for collaboration with traditional rulers and security agencies to improve security at the grassroots level. “You must take the lead in ensuring security within your domains,” he urged local government administrators.
In response to Ibas’s announcement, Clifford Paul, the President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and Administrator of Port Harcourt Local Government Area, acknowledged the progress being made in the state despite ongoing political challenges. He praised the Federal Government for appointing the Sole Administrator, attributing the decision to Ibas’s competence and leadership skills.
Paul pledged to support peace and stability and urged the Sole Administrator to prioritize workers’ welfare. He noted that local government workers are currently owed two months’ salaries but expressed hope now that the withheld allocations have been released. He encouraged all stakeholders to seize this opportunity to rebuild trust and foster unity in Rivers State.
With the announcement of the release of funds, the Rivers Sole Administrator is taking significant steps to address the pressing issues of salary delays and economic hardship affecting the region.
