Why Abia Workers Are Seeing Salary Deductions: Governor Otti Speaks Out

Governor Alex Otti of Abia has addressed recent concerns regarding salary deductions affecting some civil servants in the state. Speaking at the Government House in Umuahia on Friday night, Otti clarified that the deductions were linked to a transition from the 2018/2019 tax rate to the new 2021/2022 tax rate.

Otti explained that an investigation revealed that the perceived salary reductions were actually due to the implementation of the updated tax rate. He refuted claims that salaries were being improperly withheld, emphasizing that any deductions would be reflected directly in the beneficiaries’ accounts.

The governor also addressed allegations of salary disparity across local government areas, stating that these claims were unfounded. He attributed recent changes to tax deductions under the new rate and noted that some misunderstandings arose from shifts in overtime payment policies. According to Otti, overtime payments are now regulated more strictly, which may have led to confusion.

Regarding the minimum wage, Otti revealed that a committee has been established to address the recent increase to N70,000. He indicated that the adjustment would affect all salary scales, not just the minimum wage, and discussions with the Nigerian Labour Congress are ongoing to ensure the changes are feasible within the state’s budget.

Additionally, Otti updated on the distribution of federal rice palliatives, confirming that they were allocated to the most impoverished individuals and lower-level civil servants.

The governor assured that the state government is committed to addressing these issues promptly and transparently.