Nasarawa State to Conduct Screening to Curb Ghost Workers in LGAs
The Nasarawa State Government has announced plans to conduct a comprehensive screening exercise across its 13 Local Government Areas (LGAs) to tackle the issue of ghost workers. This initiative was disclosed by Mr. Peter Ahemba, Senior Special Assistant (SSA) on Public Affairs to Governor Abdulahi Sule, during a press conference in Lafia.
Ahemba highlighted that the state’s Economic Council, led by Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, has formed a five-member committee to oversee the screening process. The primary objective is to identify and eliminate ghost workers, thereby accurately determining the actual workforce in the LGAs.
“The Economic Council recommended the immediate screening of personnel across the 13 LGAs of the state to fish out ghost workers and ascertain the actual number of workers,” Ahemba stated. He emphasized that the exercise is crucial to rectify discrepancies such as inflated salaries despite retirements, deaths, and transfers.
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According to Ahemba, the screening will enable local government authorities to effectively plan for the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage and address other welfare concerns among employees.
He also noted the state government’s compliance with granting autonomy to the 774 LGAs in Nigeria, highlighting the abolition of the joint account system. This move ensures that councils now directly receive their allocations from the federation account, promoting transparency and accountability.
Furthermore, Ahemba mentioned ongoing efforts by the state’s Revenue Service Board to collaborate with LGA chairmen in enhancing internally generated revenue, aligning with local government laws and regulations.
