Rivers defends N100k Christmas bonus, says payment covers ALL public servants

The Rivers government says the N100,000 Christmas bonus disbursed by the state was meant for all civil and public servants on its payroll.

A statement released on Wednesday by Honour Sirawoo, permanent secretary in the Rivers ministry of information, said the state government has consistently made the payment in the last three years.

Sirawoo made the comment in response to the commendation by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over the payment of the Christmas bonus.

In a letter to the state government, Alex Agwanwor, the chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Rivers state chapter, had commended the payment of Christmas bonus.

The permanent secretary said the Christmas bonus, which has become a tradition to the state government, is a token of appreciation for the dedication of civil servants, public officers, and pensioners.

Sirawoo did not make a comment on the decision of the members of the Rivers state house of assembly to reject the N100,000 Christmas bonus.

“Your public acknowledgement of this continuous gesture further underscores the harmonious relationship between the present administration and the workforce,” the statement reads.

“Our workers are our greatest pride. While this bonus serves to brighten the festive season, our long-term goal remains the consistent improvement of the working environment and the welfare of every individual serving Rivers state.”

In a statement released on Tuesday by Enemi Alabo George, chairman of the house committee on information and petitions, the Rivers lawmakers said the payment was “unapproved and unsolicited”.

The lawmakers said they have taken “immediate steps to formally return the said funds to the account of the Rivers State Government”.

Since the lifting of the emergency rule on September 18, there has been a simmering cold war between Fubara and the lawmakers.

Recently, the legislators accused Fubara of unapproved spending.