Here’s what you need to know:
- Ebonyi’s 13 LGAs need over N10 billion for gratuities.
- Paying this would shut down the local government system for three months!
- Governor Nwifuru is praised for improving security.
- Ivo LGA is now free from frequent crises.
The N10 Billion Gratuity Gap: A Deep Dive
Prince Chinedu Uburu, the Chairman of the Association of Local Government Employees of Nigeria (ALGON) in Ebonyi State, dropped a bombshell. He revealed that a staggering N10 billion+ is needed to cover the gratuities owed to retired local government workers across the state’s 13 LGAs. That’s a whole lotta Naira!
No Pension Problems, But a Gratuity Crisis
The good news? Uburu clarified that the LGAs aren’t behind on pension payments. The bad news? Clearing the gratuity backlog would require diverting three months’ worth of allocations, effectively halting local government operations for that period. Ouch!
A Plea for Patience
Uburu is asking retirees to hang tight. He promises that payments will begin soon, but they’ll be rolled out in batches. It’s a tough situation, and patience will be key.
Security Boost Thanks to Governor Nwifuru
Amidst the financial woes, there’s some good news on the security front. Uburu praised Governor Francis Nwifuru’s administration for creating a secure environment in Ebonyi State. He claims this improved security has paved the way for infrastructure and economic development.
Is Ebonyi the Safest State in the Southeast?
Uburu went on to say that Ebonyi is now the safest state in the Southeast, crediting the Governor’s commitment to security. He highlighted the logistical support provided to security forces, which has apparently made a significant difference.
Council Chairmen Chime In
The Chairmen of Ivo and Ohaukwu LGAs, Mr. Aja Emmanuel and Chief Odono Ikechukwu, also lauded Governor Nwifuru for his support. They pointed to the state’s improved security situation, claiming that Ebonyi is now free from kidnappings – a major achievement in the Southeast.
Nwifuru’s Achievements: A Quick Rundown
According to the council chairmen, Governor Nwifuru has been busy! His achievements include:
- Empowering the youths
- Appointing many into government positions
- Building palaces for traditional rulers
- Sponsoring students for overseas scholarships
- Initiating road construction projects in all autonomous communities
Ivo LGA: From Crisis to Calm
Mr. Aja Emmanuel, Chairman of Ivo LGA, proudly stated that the days of frequent communal crises are over. He attributes this to bringing stakeholders together and working towards peace.
Ohaukwu LGA: Security and Infrastructure Rebirth
Chief Odono Ikechukwu of Ohaukwu LGA echoed the sentiments, emphasizing the strides made in security and infrastructure. He believes Ebonyi is now a safe place to invest and live.
Two Years of Progress?
Ikechukwu highlighted that Governor Nwifuru’s two years in office have brought significant improvements, including resolving the Effium and Ezza Effium communal crisis and creating five new autonomous communities.
The Big Question: How Will Ebonyi Solve This Debt Crisis?
While the accolades for Governor Nwifuru are plentiful, the pressing issue remains: how will Ebonyi State address this massive gratuity debt? The retirees are waiting, and the clock is ticking. This financial burden highlights the broader challenges faced by local governments in Nigeria, often struggling with limited resources and competing priorities.
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