UMUAHIA -During a routine military operation in Aba, the commercial nerve center of Abia State, soldiers successfully neutralized two members of a criminal gang who attempted to attack an army unit to seize their weapons. The operation, which lasted over 30 minutes, resulted in a fierce gunfight that, regrettably, affected some innocent passersby caught in the crossfire.
Speaking to journalists in Umuahia, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, detailed the incident, emphasizing the soldiers’ bravery and the broader implications of the criminals’ activities. “These criminals have been targeting arms to use in various attacks across the city,” Ekeoma explained. “Their attempt was met with swift and decisive action by our security forces, who managed to neutralize two of their members.”
However, Ekeoma acknowledged the unfortunate collateral damage, noting that innocent civilians were inadvertently harmed. “While the soldiers demonstrated a high degree of gallantry, it is deeply regrettable that some passersby were hit by stray bullets,” he said. Ekeoma reassured the public that the government is continually working to enhance the security of lives and property in the state. He added that ongoing investigations aim to uncover and bring to justice the collaborators and sponsors behind such criminal activities.
In a related development, the Abia State government has announced a major initiative to address longstanding salary arrears owed to staff at various tertiary institutions in the state. The Commissioner for Information and Culture, Prince Okey Kanu, revealed that the government is committed to settling approximately N18 billion in outstanding salaries. The payments are scheduled to begin in August 2024, with a monthly disbursement of N1.5 billion over the next 12 months.
During a recent briefing, Kanu expressed confidence that this move would significantly alleviate the financial difficulties faced by the staff, particularly at Abia State University (ABSU), Uturu. “Governor Alex Otti has assured the university’s Governing Council and Vice-Chancellor of his commitment to resolving these salary issues,” Kanu stated. “The governor has directed the Accountant General to ensure the immediate payment of all outstanding monthly salaries to ABSU staff, including both verified and unverified employees.”
The Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Mike Akpara, provided further details on the financial breakdown. He specified that the total arrears amount to seventeen billion, six hundred and twenty-nine million, seven hundred and sixty-seven thousand, three hundred and forty-two naira, nine kobo. The actual monthly payments to ABSU staff will be one billion, four hundred and sixty-nine million, one hundred and forty-seven thousand, two hundred and seventy-eight naira, twenty kobo. Akpara underscored the government’s commitment to fulfilling these obligations without delay.
This comprehensive plan is seen as a decisive step towards resolving the protracted issues surrounding the monthly salary payments for ABSU staff. The governor’s directive to the verification team to relocate to ABSU aims to expedite the resolution of all outstanding verification issues, ensuring that all eligible staff receive their due payments promptly.
The government’s dual focus on enhancing security and addressing financial grievances reflects its broader commitment to stability and development in Abia State. As these initiatives unfold, the residents of Abia State remain hopeful for a more secure and economically stable environment.
