In a determined move to curb payroll fraud, the Delta State government has announced plans to identify and eliminate ghost workers from its payroll.
The initiative, which targets workers fraudulently drawing salaries without performing duties, was unveiled by the Head of Service, Dr. Reginald Bayoko, on Sunday during the Journalist Hangout program in Asaba.
Dr Bayoko emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in fighting ghost workers, pointing out that it’s nearly impossible for a staff member to disappear from their duties without others noticing.
“No member of staff can just disappear from work without people taking note both at the workplace and at home,” he stated, underscoring the need for vigilance and accountability among employees and supervisors alike.
The government’s strategy includes immediate cessation of payments to individuals no longer in the state’s employ, particularly those who have left the country.
Dr. Bayoko also warned that supervisory officers who fail to report such cases or worse, those who enable ghost workers through deliberate oversight or negligence will face disciplinary measures.
“Supervising officers who aided them deliberately or through negligence would be punished accordingly,” he asserted.
The crackdown comes as part of a broader commitment by the Delta State government to reduce wastage in public finances and ensure that state resources benefit only legitimate employees and services.
Read also: MOSOP flays scrapping of Niger Delta Ministry, describes it as ‘unnecessary’
The initiative is expected to involve thorough audits and assessments of staff records across various ministries and departments.
Delta State’s battle against ghost workers mirrors a national trend, as Nigerian states face increasing pressure to cut unnecessary expenditures and improve fiscal discipline.
Ghost workers, who siphon substantial funds through fictitious or inflated payroll claims, have long been a drain on state resources, hampering the delivery of essential services.
As the government intensifies efforts to rid its payroll of fraudulent claims, the Head of Service reiterated the administration’s commitment to a clean, transparent, and efficient workforce.
Dr. Bayoko urged citizens and civil servants alike to support the government’s initiative, which he described as crucial to the state’s long-term development.
The ongoing exercise to identify ghost workers is set to unfold in the coming months, with further announcements on compliance expectations and potential penalties for non-adherence.
