Rivers Sole Administrator Confirms Release Of Withheld Allocations.
Ibok-Ete Ibas, the sole administrator of Rivers State, has announced the release of withheld local government allocations, assuring that all necessary steps will be taken to ensure timely payment of workers’ salaries.
Speaking during a meeting with heads of local government administrators in Port Harcourt, Ibas described the gathering as a pivotal moment in the collective effort to restore stability and progress in the state.
The Sole Administrator lamented the economic hardship in the Niger Delta, noting that despite the region’s wealth of natural resources, its people continue to suffer.
“This is unacceptable,” he stated, emphasising the need for transformation and accountability.
The administrator expressed concern over the delay in salary payments across local government areas, acknowledging the struggles of affected workers.
“I feel the pain of the workers,” he stated, assuring them that the withheld appropriations had been released and that his administration would ensure that salaries be paid without delay.
However, he warned that financial accountability would be strictly enforced.
Ibas, a retired vice admiral and former Chief of Naval Staff, asked all local government units to submit their salary bills, supported by required paperwork, through the office of the Head of Service.
He said his administration will not accept financial recklessness, vowing to investigate the handling of public finances and take action against any malfeasance.
Ibas said good governance is not simply a slogan, but a commitment to reverse the negative narrative within the next six months.
He further underlined the necessity of cooperating with traditional rulers and security authorities to strengthen security at the grassroots level.
“You must take the lead in ensuring security within your domains,” he encouraged local government managers.
Responding, the President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and Administrator of Port Harcourt Local Government Area, Clifford Paul, recognised the developmental accomplishments made in the state despite political disputes.
He congratulated the federal government for choosing the sole administrator, attributing the choice to his competency and leadership ability.
He committed to promoting peace and stability while pushing the administrator to prioritise workers’ wellbeing.
He said that local government workers are currently owed two months’ salaries but are hopeful now that the withheld appropriations have been released.
He asked stakeholders to grasp this chance to re-establish trust and develop unity in the state.