Rivers Govt Clarifies ₦100,000 Festive Payment to Workers Amid Assembly’s Return of Transfers

The Rivers State Government has explained that its annual ₦100,000 Christmas bonus is disbursed to all civil and public servants on the state payroll, including pensioners and public office holders, as part of an established festive season payment practice.

The clarification was issued by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, in a statement on Wednesday in Port Harcourt, responding to public interest in the recently processed bonus payment.

Dr. Sirawoo affirmed that the bonus, which has been paid consistently over the last three years, is intended to recognise the dedication and service of state employees throughout the year.

He said the Rivers State Government views the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) not merely as a labour union but as a key partner in its “Rivers First” development agenda, adding that the union’s commendation reflected what the government described as a cordial relationship between the administration and the workforce.

Earlier on Tuesday, a statement was released regarding the decision by the Rivers State House of Assembly to return similar payments credited to the personal accounts of lawmakers, describing those transfers as unsolicited and lacking legislative approval.

In a statement signed by Hon. Enemi Alabo George, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, the Assembly maintained that public expenditures must comply with due process and legislative authorisation, noting that the transfers were returned to the state treasury upon discovery.