The Rivers State Government has clarified that the ₦100,000 Christmas bonus paid to civil servants was disbursed universally, including pensioners, as a gesture of appreciation for their service.
Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communications, Honour Sirawoo, said the bonus, which has been consistently paid over the past three years, was given to all civil and public office holders on the state payroll.
He emphasized that the gesture reflects Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to workers’ welfare and the strong partnership with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which publicly commended the payment.
However, reports indicate that members of the Rivers State House of Assembly rejected the bonus. The Assembly returned the ₦100,000 credited to members’ accounts, describing the transfers as unsolicited and unapproved.
In a statement signed by Enemi George, the Assembly noted that the funds were credited on December 30, 2025, following instructions from the governor without legislative approval, and said accepting the bonus could be perceived as compromising the independence of the legislature.
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