Gusau, Zamfara State, April 1, 2025 – The Coalition of Rescue Support Groups in Zamfara State has commended Governor Dauda Lawal for his decisive action in identifying and removing 2,363 ghost workers from the state's payroll. The move is projected to save the state approximately N193,642,097.19 monthly, funds that were previously being siphoned off illegally.
The Coalition's statement, signed by Zamfara State Coordinator Alhaji Rufai Ahmed Gusau, emphasized the positive impact of this action, particularly in facilitating the Governor's swift implementation of the N70,000 new national minimum wage for civil servants. According to the Coalition, this new minimum wage will provide greater financial stability, improve service delivery, and lead to a better standard of living for government employees across the state.
"A Departure from Salary Bondage"
The Coalition lauded the Governor's actions as a significant improvement over past administrations. "It’s a departure from the vicious cycle of salary bondage imposed on workers by previous administrations in the state," the statement read. They highlighted that the current administration prioritizes recognizing and rewarding hardworking and genuine employees.
The statement further clarified that Zamfara State now has 28,273 verified and cleared workers. The removal of the 2,363 ghost workers is estimated to save the state around N200 million, which will now be redirected towards developmental projects aimed at making Zamfara State prosperous again. The Coalition believes this action has salvaged Zamfara from "political hirelings and reactionary forces" that have hindered its progress.
Call for Unity and Support
The Coalition emphasized the tangible benefits now being enjoyed by the people of Zamfara, citing improved security and increased economic activity as key indicators of progress. "With improved security and economic activities, Zamfara people now enjoy the dividends of democracy and good governance. This is what democracy is all about," the statement asserted.
In closing, the Coalition urged all workers, union leaders, opposition parties, and the general public of Zamfara to unite and support the government in its ongoing reform efforts, aimed at fostering progress, development, and advancement throughout the state.
