Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has announced a significant initiative aimed at verifying the staff payroll across the state's 23 local government areas. This comprehensive exercise is designed to identify and eliminate 'ghost' workers, a long-standing issue that has plagued the local government payroll system.

During the commissioning of the Omademe Internal Roads Project in Ikwerre Local Government Area on Monday, Governor Fubara emphasized the need for fiscal discipline within the public service. He stated that the decision to undertake this verification was not only necessary but also a commitment to ensuring that public resources are utilized effectively.

Governor Fubara acknowledged that the problem of inflated payrolls at the local government level was not new and had persisted even before he took office. He revealed that the previous Local Government Service Commission had already initiated steps to address the issue prior to the emergency rule in the state. Upon his return from a brief hiatus, he was determined to see the matter resolved.

Drawing from his experience as a Treasury Officer, Fubara highlighted the importance of objectivity and integrity in the verification process. He assured the public that the committee overseeing the exercise would operate free from political influence. "It doesn’t matter whether the people are my supporters or from the other side. Now there is no other side. We are all Rivers people," he stated, urging citizens to view the initiative as a step towards better governance rather than a politically motivated action.

In his remarks, the governor reiterated his commitment to transparency, stating, "If you have to be employed, you have to be employed through the proper channel." He called on those spreading political narratives around the exercise to refrain from doing so, emphasizing that the focus should be on facts and the welfare of the state.

The Omademe road project, which was also inaugurated during the event, is part of Fubara's broader strategy to enhance infrastructure in rural communities. The project includes 10 internal roads spanning approximately 8.6 kilometres, with features designed to improve drainage and reduce flooding. The contract for this project was awarded to Setraco Construction Limited in February 2024, with construction commencing in November of the same year.

Governor Fubara expressed his resolve to continue adding value to the state until the end of his term, encouraging political leaders to collaborate in fostering peace and unity among the populace. He stated, "What is behind me is behind me. What I am looking at is what is ahead of me. So, please, let’s look at what is ahead of all of us as a team."

The Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Charles Wobodo, commended the governor for the infrastructure developments while also advocating for additional road projects to further enhance the local road network. As the state moves forward, the governor's initiatives reflect a commitment to improving governance and public service efficiency in Rivers State.