Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has expressed worry over the continued shortfall in revenue accruing to the state, saying it has made it “almost impossible” for local governments to meet their huge wage bill.”
Local governments in the state have threatened to down tools over non-payment of salary and their promotion allowances, among other entitlements.
Udom, who spoke at a monthly prayer meeting, said the state government had to resort to “sourcing for funds to augment the finances of the local governments.”
He sympathised with the labour union leaders at the local government councils who misconstrued government sincere efforts toward their welfare by threatening industrial action, and urged them to compare notes with their counterparts in other states of the federation.
According to Udom, they will have reason to appreciate the steps taken so far by his administration to ensure that their welfare is given priority attention.
The governor commended the political class for their steadfastness, but expressed dismay over attempts by some of them to sign pacts with the opposition expecting the worst and urged them to desist from acts of deceit and remain focus with the administration.
Noting that his administration is on course to achieving sustainable development as enunciated in the divine mandate, he called for prayers from the people for the fulfilment of God’s purpose in the state.
Preaching on the theme “Lord We Thank You,” John Linus of the Word of Faith Covenant Ministry, Uyo, identified thanksgiving as the most powerful weapon of unsettling the enemy and compelled God to do more, adding that acts of ingratitude displeased God and urged all to appreciate God irrespective of the situation they might find themselves.
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