Verification Exercise Reveals Widespread Irregularities in Zamfara State Civil Service

0
44

By Ifeanyichukwu Marcus

(SINL NIGERIA) The Zamfara State Government has taken bold and necessary steps to cleanse the civil service payroll of fraudulent practices, ensuring that hardworking, genuine employees are recognized in the State’s civil service.

This historic payroll verification exercise has been conducted with the support of the State chapter of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC,  the State’s chapter of Nigeria Union of Teachers, NUT, and other workers’ unions in the State, revealing shocking irregularities that have been depriving Zamfara State workers of their rightful benefits for years.

This was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday  by the State Commissioner of Information and Culture, Hon. Mahmud Muhammad Dantawasa and made available to newsmen in Gusau, the State capital. 

According to the statement, the  process was not designed to punish anyone, saying that no innocent worker will lose his or her job. 

“Instead, this verification will strengthen the civil service, guarantee fair salary payments, and free up funds to support workers through the upcoming implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage”, he added.

“Key Findings from the verification exercise revealed that a total of 28,273 workers were verified and cleared, including 27,109 permanent workers, 67 on secondment, 213 on study leave”

“395 contract staff, 261 individuals not on the nominal roll,  2,821 workers were not cleared due to various discrepancies, including, 2,363 ghost workers, who were illegally receiving a total salary of ₦193,642,097.19 monthly, 1,082 workers due for retirement, collecting ₦80,542,298.26 monthly”

According to him, 207 workers recommended for suspension, earning a combined salaries of ₦16,370,645.90 monthly, 220 minors found on the payroll, meaning they were employed in violation of the law.

See also  NCC, FCCPC Sign MoU to Protect Telecom Consumers, Streamline Regulatory Operations

He further stated that 261 individuals not on the nominal roll, whose employment status was questionable, 75 cases where appointment dates did not align with the issue date, and all were minors at the time of employment.

Speaking further, he said that there were five workers on secondment, receiving ₦354,927.60 monthly, 12 workers on the payroll, but not in the database, receiving ₦726,594 monthly.

“By eliminating fraudulent salary payments, the Zamfara State Government will now save over ₦200 million every month. This recovered money will directly benefit civil servants, particularly as the state prepares to implement the ₦70,000 minimum wage starting in March 2025”

“The exercise is for the benefit of Workers, no Innocent worker will be sacked”

“Governor Lawal understands that change can bring fear, and some may try to spread propaganda against the government. However, the truth remains: this is a pro-worker initiative”

“Verified workers will continue to receive their salaries and benefits without interruption. Those found with discrepancies can seek a fair review of their cases”

“The funds recovered will be used to improve salaries, working conditions, and government services. The government will not sack any innocent worker. This verification only removes ghost workers and fraudulent employment cases, ensuring fairness and justice for all”

“Workers’ Unions were fully involved, this is a joint effort. This verification was conducted in full collaboration with workers’ unions, including the NLC, NUT, and other relevant bodies. Their involvement ensures that the rights of all workers were protected throughout the process”

The Commissioner noted that Governor Dauda Lawal is committed to building a civil service that is transparent, efficient, and fair, stressing that the funds saved from this exercise will be redirected towards:

See also  I'll advance peace initiatives to the next level -Zamfara CP

“Paying the new ₦70,000 minimum wage, Providing better working conditions for government employees, investing in education, healthcare, and infrastructure for all citizens”

“Governor Lawal is not against workers, he is fighting for their future. The people of Zamfara should not fall for misinformation. This exercise will bring greater financial stability, improved service.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here