- Ibas Directs Immediate Payment of Salary Arrears
- Local Government Administrators Tasked with Ensuring Transparency
Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, has confirmed the release of local government allocations that were previously withheld amid the state’s political crisis. Speaking in Port Harcourt on Friday during a meeting with Heads of Local Government Administrators, Ibas assured that workers’ salaries would be paid without further delay.
The funds had been frozen following a Supreme Court ruling, which required the Rivers State House of Assembly to properly appropriate them. However, on March 19, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, stated that the allocations could be released upon request by the sole administrator.
“If the administrator requests it, I will say it should be released to him,” Fagbemi told reporters at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, citing the state’s “extraordinary situation” as justification for the move.
Confirming the release, Ibas acknowledged the financial hardship suffered by local government workers and issued a directive for the immediate disbursement of salaries.
“I sincerely feel the pain of these workers, many of whom have endured months of financial strain. Let me assure you that the withheld allocations have now been released, and I hereby issue a directive that all necessary steps be taken to ensure that these salaries are paid without further delay,” he said.
He emphasized the need for accountable and inclusive governance, directing all local government areas to submit their wage bills through the Head of Service’s office to ensure transparency.
“This will enable me to acquaint myself with the situation and address any outstanding matters. All such submissions should be supported with relevant documents to ensure accuracy,” he stated.
Ibas also underscored the importance of financial responsibility and security at the local government level, warning that transparency measures would be strictly enforced. He urged local government administrators to play a proactive role in maintaining peace and stability in their areas.
“You must take the lead in ensuring security within your domains,” he advised.
In response, Clifford Paul, President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees and Administrator of Port Harcourt Local Government Area, commended Ibas for his leadership despite the state’s political challenges. He also expressed appreciation for the Federal Government’s intervention and pledged support for peace and stability while urging the administrator to prioritize the welfare of local government workers.
