Rivers reacts to ₦100,000 Christmas bonus controversy

Rivers government has reacted to the controversial ₦100,000 Christmas bonus paid to civil servants in the state.

It said the bonus was paid to all civil and public office holders in the state, without discrimination.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communications, Honour Sirawoo, said this in a statement on Wednesday.

According to him, the bonus was disbursed across board to all workers, including pensioners, captured on the Rivers State Government payroll system.

Sirawoo made the clarification in response to the commendation by the Nigeria Labour Congress over the recent payment of the Christmas bonus but did not comment on the reported rejection of the bonus by members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

According to him, the ₦100,000 payment has been made consistently for the past three years for civil servants, public officers, and pensioners in the state.

He said that it was intended as a token of appreciation for their dedication and service throughout the year, adding that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remained committed to the welfare of workers in the state.

Sirawoo added that the state government regards the NLC not merely as a labour union, but as a critical partner.

He noted that the union’s public acknowledgement of the gesture reflects the cordial relationship between the administration and the workforce.

According to him, workers remain the greatest pride of the Rivers State Government.

The Rivers State House of Assembly had on Tuesday said it had returned the sum of ₦100,000 credited to the personal bank accounts of its members, describing the transfers as unsolicited and unapproved.

In a statement issued and signed by Enemi George, the Assembly said the funds were credited on December 30, 2025, following instructions from the governor without legislative approval.