Kwara Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq Approves Financial Bonus for Civil Servants Amid Tax Concerns
Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has approved a financial bonus for all civil servants in the state, including those employed by local governments. This initiative aims to provide temporary relief and is equivalent to the monthly Pay As You Earn (PAYE) tax obligations of the workers. According to a statement issued on Monday by the Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, this emergency support measure will be in effect for a minimum of three months, from October through December 2024.
Dr. Nuru explained that the bonus is designed to mitigate the financial impact that the recent adjustments to the PAYE deductions have had on employees’ salaries following the implementation of a new minimum wage of N70,000. “This bonus serves as a soothing balm as workers adjust to the PAYE that was just correctly implemented in line with the Personal Income Tax Act,” she stated, emphasizing its role as a buffer for the workforce during this transitional period.
The announcement comes in response to concerns raised by organized labor groups in the state, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). Last week, these groups voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the high taxes being deducted from workers’ salaries as a result of the new minimum wage policy. The State Administrative Committee of organized labor issued a joint statement, expressing that the government’s tax implementation diverged from what had been agreed upon during negotiations.
The labor leaders, including NLC Chairman Comrade Muritala Olayinka and TUC Chairman Comrade Olayinka Onikijipa, condemned the new tax regime and called for its reversal to prevent industrial unrest. They also highlighted the lack of implementation of the minimum wage for pensioners in the state, urging the government to address this issue promptly.
In addition to the bonus, the Finance Commissioner urged workers to register with the Kwara State Residents’ Registration Agency, noting that those who fail to do so would not be eligible for the bonus in November and December. The statement also revealed that labor unions have agreed to a refund of a special levy previously deducted from workers’ salaries and to suspend further deductions until further notice.
Dr. Nuru concluded by underscoring Governor Abdulrazaq’s commitment to the welfare of the Kwara workforce, stating that his directive to provide this financial relief reflects a deep sense of humanity and responsibility towards state employees.
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