Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, has revealed that his administration, in collaboration with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), has recovered N1.3 billion from a former governor of the state, Ibrahim Dankwambo. This recovered money will be used to settle the backlog of gratuities and pensions owed by previous governments.
Governor Yahaya made this announcement during the swearing-in ceremony of newly appointed commissioners, 12 permanent secretaries, and the state’s Head of Civil Service in Gombe.
He explained that his administration inherited a state burdened with debt, including significant unpaid pensions and gratuities. To address these issues, his administration has already settled over N7.9 billion in gratuity obligations inherited from the previous government. The recovered N1.3 billion will further aid in the payment of outstanding pension and gratuity to retired workers.
Governor Yahaya also mentioned that, to mitigate the economic impact of the recent fuel subsidy removal, he has approved a payment of N10,000 to all state workers across the board, pending the determination of the new national minimum wage under negotiation between the Federal Government and labor unions. Additionally, promotions and other welfare packages are being fully implemented with full financial benefits.
The governor emphasized his administration’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and holding officials accountable to prevent corruption and encourage good governance.
The EFCC’s Head of Public Affairs, Dele Oyewale, was yet to confirm the fund recovery when contacted by the press, stating that he needed time to gather more information on the matter.