Governor Otti Rejects Claims of Unpaid Salaries, Highlights Efforts to Settle Judiciary Workers’ Dues

Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has strongly dismissed rumors that his administration owes judiciary workers, stressing that his government is committed to ensuring timely salary payments and promoting financial transparency. During a media briefing, Otti addressed the issue head-on, stating, “This is a government that does not owe. It is untrue that judiciary workers have not been paid.”

The controversy began following the recent upward review of the national minimum wage, and although discussions were held with judiciary workers, similar to those with the Nigerian Labour Congress, initial cooperation was lacking. Otti explained that instead of engaging with the government, judiciary workers took it upon themselves to independently calculate their salaries, which led to discrepancies.

“When the issue escalated, I personally intervened and held discussions with the Honourable Chief Judge. We reviewed the calculations and found several errors, which we promptly corrected,” the governor said.

Otti went on to detail the efforts made to settle the dispute, revealing that on December 24, 2024, his administration deposited N283,242,318.50 into the judiciary’s account to cover salary payments. The governor, working alongside the Accountant General, the Commissioner for Justice, and the Commissioner for Finance, ensured that this payment was processed before Christmas.

Furthermore, Otti approved an additional N27 million, bringing the total payment to nearly N300 million. He also provided funds for a thirteenth-month salary for judiciary workers.

However, despite the funds being transferred, Otti disclosed that judiciary workers have yet to receive their salaries due to delays within the judiciary system. “Judiciary is an independent arm of government. Our job is to remit the money to their account, and their job is to pay their workers. Interestingly, as of this morning, they have refused to pay their workers,” he explained.

Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s dedication to fairness and accountability, calling on judiciary officials to take swift action and distribute the funds to their workers. “Our actions are guided by the principles of transparency, equity, and good governance,” he affirmed.

Finally, Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of all workers across sectors, ensuring that salaries are paid promptly and in full.