The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has confirmed the release of withheld local government funds, assuring that workers’ salaries will be paid promptly. The funds had been frozen following a Supreme Court ruling that required proper appropriation by the State House of Assembly before release.
On Wednesday, March 19, the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, stated that the funds could be released upon request by the sole administrator. Fagbemi emphasized that the extraordinary situation in Rivers State justified the release of the allocations.
During a meeting with Heads of Local Government Administrators in Port Harcourt on Friday, Ibas confirmed the release of the funds and directed immediate steps to settle salary arrears. He expressed empathy for workers who had endured months of financial strain, stating, “I sincerely feel the pain of these workers… Let me assure you that the withheld allocations have now been released, and I hereby issue a directive that all the necessary steps be taken to ensure that these salaries are paid with no further delay.”
Ibas stressed the importance of inclusive and transformative leadership, urging local government administrators to prioritize the welfare of their people. He also mandated all local government areas to submit their wage bills through the office of the Head of Service to ensure transparency and accountability.
Additionally, Ibas emphasized the need for local government administrators to actively maintain security in their domains. 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 and pledged support for peace and stability in the state.
The release of the funds marks a significant step toward addressing the financial challenges faced by local government workers in Rivers State, with a focus on accountability and improved governance.
