FEDERAL civil servants in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have raised concerns over the Federal Government’s decision to disburse the N35,000 wage award arrears in monthly installments rather than as a lump sum.
Some workers, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday, argued that the government should have paid the full N175,000 (covering five months) at once, as the delayed payment has caused financial strain.
Mr. John Lewis, a senior staff member at the Ministry of Information, expressed dissatisfaction with the delayed payments, stating that the government had initially promised to settle the arrears promptly.
“The Federal Government assured us of payment, but it is surprising that only one month’s installment has been released instead of the full five months owed,” Lewis said.
He further criticized the handling of wage-related issues, citing similar delays in the implementation of the minimum wage.
Mr. Unekwu-ojo Idachaba, a Chief Librarian, described the staggered payment as unsatisfactory, noting that a lump sum would have been more beneficial to workers. He emphasized the need for improved financial planning and transparency in government disbursements.
However, Mrs. Joy Okezia, another civil servant, expressed gratitude for the partial payment, stating that it came at an opportune time. She urged the government to prioritize workers’ welfare without necessitating industrial action.
Malam Abubakar Bakari acknowledged the commencement of payments but called on the government to consistently safeguard workers’ welfare, given their role in national economic growth.
The Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF) confirmed that the wage award arrears, amounting to N35,000 per month for five months, are being processed.
Bawa Mokwa, Director of Press and Public Relations at the OAGF, assured that the payments would be completed accordingly. (NAN)
