Gov. Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti state, has directed that the salaries of all political appointees in the state be cut by 50 percent.
Fayemi who gave the order in a statement issued by Muyiwa Olumilua, commissioner for information and values orientation, on Tuesday, said the directive was issued based on the impact of COVID-19 in the state.
“The global economy has been severely affected and has affected Nigeria’s economy as a nation and expectedly, Ekiti. As a responsive and responsible government, we have taken stock of our financial situation,” he said.
The governor said the pay cut will not only affect his appointees but also himself and the deputy governor.
But he added that the salary cut will not affect civil servants in the state.
Fayemi said the 50 percent cut from the salaries of appointees will be channelled into the execution and completion of developmental projects in the state. “This sacrifice is for the welfare of Ekiti people above all other considerations,” he said.
“This is vis-a-vis the constantly decreasing receipts from the federation account, as well as the state’s dwindling internally generated revenue (IGR), and has, therefore, been forced to wake up to the current realities of the state’s fiscal position.
“Your patriotism, patience, and co-operation are highly appreciated at all times.”
According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Ekiti state has eight COVID-19 cases, five active cases, one death and two discharged persons.