
APC Warns Ebonyi Civil Servants Against ’ Manipulation From Politicians
Sunday Ogbu
The Ebonyi State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Stanley Emegha, has cautioned civil servants in the state against allowing themselves to be manipulated by politicians to execute divisive agendas.
Emegha issued the warning in a statement on Wednesday in Abakaliki, emphasising the administration’s commitment to the welfare of workers in the state.
Highlighting Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru’s strides in improving workers’ welfare, the APC chairman recalled several initiatives, including a 20% salary increment, a N100,000 Christmas bonus in 2022, and the proactive adoption of the new national minimum wage.
“He is the first governor under the current democratic dispensation to approve a minimum wage of N75,000, even before the national negotiation for the N70,000 wage. This demonstrates his commitment to improving the lives of civil servants,” Emegha stated.
The APC chieftain criticized the recent aborted industrial action by state civil servants, describing it as unwarranted and suggesting it was influenced by external forces.
“It is baffling that Ebonyi civil servants, despite the governor’s commendable efforts, could consider such a move. This raises questions about who orchestrated it. Were they more comfortable with the era of executive impunity and abandonment?” he asked.
Emegha expressed concerns over what he described as undue pressure on civil servants by “greedy and malicious politicians.”
He warned workers against being manipulated into actions that undermine the state government’s efforts and their own welfare.
He further praised the governor’s initiatives to support workers, noting that beyond salary increments, civil servants have benefitted from empowerment programs and the clearing of gratuity arrears for retirees spanning 1996 to 2023.
“Governor Nwifuru has prioritized the civil service as the engine room of government. His administration remains steadfast in its commitment to the People’s Charter of Needs Agenda, ensuring the welfare of workers remains a top priority,” he stated.
The APC chairman urged civil servants to adopt dialogue over confrontation in addressing grievances and commended their return to work following the governor’s directive.