The Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Ebonyi State Chapter, Chinedu Uburu, disclosed on Monday that workers who have passed away since 2009 are still receiving salaries in the state’s local government system.

Uburu made this revelation during a courtesy visit by the state’s NUJ executives, led by Chairman Samson Nwafor, to his office in Abakaliki.

He explained that the discovery came to light during an ongoing verification exercise and urged patience from workers who have yet to receive their payments.

He stressed that no local government chairman in Ebonyi is undertaking a project of less than N500 million, and promised that journalists would be invited for a project inspection before the month ends.

“The verification exercise is not targeted at anyone. Workers don’t realize that council chairmen are trying to help them. Last year, the President signed the minimum wage into law, and with the current number of staff, we can’t even pay salaries,” Uburu added.

As the Chairman of Ebonyi Local Government, he also commended the leadership of the NUJ for maintaining professionalism in journalism within the state.

He reiterated that the media plays a crucial role in showcasing the state’s development and conveying accurate information to the public.

Earlier, NUJ Chairman Samson Nwafor stressed the union’s role in fostering a healthy partnership between journalists and the government.

He noted that the media’s responsibility is to serve the people’s interests and highlighted the need for adequate information to support journalists in their mission.

“Journalism is no longer about attacking the government; it’s about supporting it, advising when necessary, and ensuring the state progresses. We are part of the society, and our work should aim to contribute to the betterment of Ebonyi,” Nwafor said.

He assured that the NUJ would continue to support ALGON in its efforts toward sustainable development in Ebonyi State. (The Guardian)