Sokoto State Clarifies Salary Deductions for Employees’ Loan Repayment
The Sokoto State Government clarified the recent deduction of salaries from employees in the state civil service, stating that the deduction was for loan repayments by the affected staff members. Abba Muhammed Mualledi, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, explained that the affected workers had obtained multiple loans from financial institutions, spanning previous administrations.
He mentioned that upon assuming office, financial houses demanded refunds from defaulters. Investigations revealed that the money deducted from salaries over the last six months was not remitted to the financial houses, prompting the present issue.
Mualledi assured the public that the ministry is working to rectify the situation. Plans include discussions with the salary department, the Nigerian Labour Congress, and the financial houses to address anomalies and regulate payments. Additionally, efforts are underway to harmonize loan records and regulate loan acquisitions by civil servants in the state, ensuring proper management and accountability.