Why Sokoto gratuity payment is delayed — Committee chair
CHIGOZIE AMADI
The Sokoto State Government, through the committee responsible for the payment of gratuities to retired civil servants in the state, has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that all eligible retirees receive their benefits.
The chairman of the committee, Umar Tambuwal, who is also the Sokoto State Accountant General, gave this assurance in response to complaints from some beneficiaries who said they had not yet received their payment alerts after undergoing the screening process.
Tambuwal explained that the committee typically approves the release of funds to beneficiaries immediately after the screening process is completed.
“However, some beneficiaries, particularly those living far from the state capital, may experience delays in receiving their payment alerts.
“The delays in payments, as reported by a few beneficiaries, were not due to any fault of the committee, but rather technical issues with the financial institutions, as payments are processed electronically,” he added.
A statement by the information officer of the Ministry of Finance, Sirajo Gada, made available to newsmen on Sunday, said Tambuwal assured that the committee, under his leadership, is working tirelessly in collaboration with the affected banks to expedite the outstanding payments.
He also urged the beneficiaries to exercise patience, assuring them that the administration of Governor Ahmed Aliyu is fully committed to settling the backlog of gratuities owed to retired civil servants in the state.