In a recent development, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has categorically denied reports circulating online that he pledged to pay state and local government workers a minimum wage of ₦80,000. The Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, has dismissed the claims as “false and misleading.”
According to Chukwudi, “The attention of the Rivers State Government has been drawn to claims circulating in online media that the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has proposed to pay a new minimum wage of N80,000 for civil servants in the state and local government areas.” He emphasized that the reports are “unverified” and urged the public to disregard them.
Chukwudi stated, “Ordinarily, we would not have responded to this fake news, but for the wrong impression it would create in the minds of the public, especially civil servants in the state.” He assured that the government would make its position public in due course.
It is important to note that Governor Fubara has previously demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of workers in the state.
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In February 2024, he approved the immediate promotion of local government workers and implemented a ₦30,000 minimum wage.
Additionally, he implemented the ₦35,000 wage award approved by the Federal Government to cushion the effect of the removal of fuel subsidy.
The recent rumors about the ₦80,000 minimum wage proposal have created unnecessary excitement and speculation among workers and the general public. Governor Fubara’s swift response to debunk the rumors has helped to clear the air and maintain transparency in his administration’s dealings with workers.
As Chukwudi aptly put it, “We will continue to work in the best interest of the people of Rivers State.”
