Outrage as Governor Alia announces mass sacking of Benue civil servants

Outrage as Governor Alia announces mass sacking of Benue civil servants

Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has issued a directive to terminate all employment in the State Civil Service made by the previous administration in the last year.

The order also includes the reversal of promotions to the rank of Permanent Secretary made by the outgoing administration from January 2023, with the affected individuals required to revert to their previous positions.

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has condemned the sacking of civil servants, labelling it as unlawful, insensitive, and callous.

The acting State Chairman of the PDP, Mr Isaac Mffo, stated that the affected civil servants were lawfully employed and called for a reversal of the directive. He emphasized that civil servants were entitled to their rights, privileges, and protections as guaranteed by labour laws.

Mffo further criticized Governor Alia, stating that his action demonstrated insensitivity, especially considering the hardships endured by Nigerians under the previous Buhari regime, such as economic mismanagement and insecurity.

The PDP urged Governor Alia to exercise caution and avoid worsening the sufferings of the people of Benue State.

Additionally, the PDP highlighted that the governor should follow due process by engaging in consultations and interactive engagements to incorporate public input in decision-making.

They condemned the arbitrary and unpopular actions taken by Governor Alia, including the sack order on Benue civil servants and previous orders issued to heads of agencies and parastatals. The PDP warned that such actions could lead to litigation, which would not be beneficial to the administration or the state.

The PDP called for the immediate reversal of the sack order, emphasizing that doing so would prevent negative consequences for the administration and the state as a whole.

They urged Governor Alia to rescind the directive and seek a more inclusive approach to decision-making to benefit the people of Benue State.