Godwin Adindu, the Chief Press Secretary to the Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Ikpeazu, has explained the reason his boss cut his salary and allowances by 50 per cent.
Adindu said it was to demonstrate Ikpeazu’s sincere feeling of compassion towards the plight of workers and the entire citizenry of the state who are affected by the global economic crisis occasioned by dwindling oil prices.
Adindu said Ikpeazu has to demonstrate exemplary leadership by making personal sacrifices and encouraging his aides and top government functionaries to follow his footsteps, adding that the governor is pained by the plight of Abia State workers.
He disclosed further that the economic crunch facing many states in the federation is a consequence of the global slide in oil prices, which has had a spiral effect on the federal allocation that comes to the states, adding that the Federal Government is also grappling with the same challenges.
According to Adindu, the governor has had to cut down on many things, including the number of his entourage, as a way to save cost for the state and to restore and grow the state’s economy to stability.
Adindu further disclosed that all appointees of government in the current dispensation are also making personal sacrifices in the course of their work and in the same spirit with the governor as a way to assist the state recover from the current economic situation.
He said Ikpeazu on his part is making every effort to ensure that the arrears of salaries of workers are cleared and settled.
He called for the understanding and cooperation of Abia State people, saying Ikpeazu is committed to service, work and performance.
—