Fubara Defends Payroll Clean-Up in Rivers State

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State defended his administration's implementation of a payroll verification exercise across the state's 23 local government areas, aimed at eliminating ghost workers and restoring fiscal discipline. Speaking on Monday during the commissioning of the Omademe Internal Roads Project in Ikwerre Local Government Area, Fubara stated that the payroll clean-up was necessary to address longstanding irregularities in salary structures, a problem that predates his administration.

He affirmed his commitment to completing the process with the support of experienced treasury and ICT personnel, dismissing claims of political motivation behind the verification. Fubara emphasized that employment in the public service must adhere to due process, regardless of political affiliation.

He also highlighted his administration's commitment to infrastructure development, specifically projects that enhance connectivity in rural communities. The Omademe road project, awarded to Setraco Construction Limited in February 2024, includes 10 internal roads covering approximately 8.6 kilometers, along with concrete side drains and an outfall drainage system.