“I feel the pain of the workers” – Ibas vows accountability and financial reform across LGAs
Port Harcourt, Nigeria – In a major development aimed at easing tensions across the 23 Local Government Areas of Rivers State, the Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), has ordered the release of all previously withheld local government allocations, with a clear directive to prioritize the payment of workers’ salaries.
During a crucial meeting with Heads of Local Government Administrators on Friday in Port Harcourt, Ibas, a former Chief of Naval Staff, expressed deep concern over the delay in salary disbursements and the hardship faced by local government workers.
“I feel the pain of the workers,” he said empathetically. “We have released the withheld allocations, and I will ensure that salaries are paid without further delay.”
Salary Delays, Accountability, and a New Leadership Tone
The move comes after months of salary arrears that have left local government staff reeling. Workers are reportedly owed two months’ salaries, a situation the administrator described as unacceptable.
Vice-Admiral Ibas emphasized that while the allocations have now been released, his administration will enforce strict financial discipline.
“There will be zero tolerance for financial recklessness,” he warned. “All LGAs must submit their wage bills with proper documentation through the office of the Head of Service.”
Ibas’s no-nonsense approach signals a shift toward accountability in a state riddled with political turbulence in recent times. The administrator also vowed to monitor fund usage and sanction any cases of mismanagement.
Good Governance, Security, and Six-Month Commitment
Positioning himself as a reformer, Ibas pledged to change the narrative of dysfunction within a six-month window.
“Good governance is not a slogan,” he declared. “It is a responsibility. And I expect every administrator to lead from the front, particularly in ensuring security within their domains.”
This comes as Rivers State continues to experience political instability, with recent federal interventions including the emergency rule declaration by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Workers, Union Leaders Welcome Move but Call for Sustained Action
Clifford Paul, President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) and Port Harcourt LGA Administrator, welcomed the development.
He commended the Federal Government’s appointment of Ibas, describing him as “competent and purposeful.” Paul also acknowledged the developmental efforts made so far despite the political crises.
“We believe in your leadership. But we urge you not to forget the welfare of workers, which remains a top priority,” Paul added.
What’s Next?
With the release of funds and a directive for immediate action, attention now shifts to how local government administrators respond. Will the salaries be paid promptly? Will financial integrity be maintained?
For Rivers State, this could be a defining moment of recovery or a missed opportunity if the promised reforms are not enforced with consistency.
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