Zamfara gov suspends unauthorised salary deductions

Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has directed an immediate suspension of all unauthorised salary deductions from civil servants, particularly those related to cooperative associations and commodity vendors. The action follows numerous complaints from workers about illegal deductions through the state’s payroll system.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, Governor Lawal’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, confirmed the decision, stressing the need to reform the payroll system to ensure fair and efficient management of civil servants’ salaries.

The directive specifically targets non-statutory deductions, which had been used for unauthorised surcharges under the guise of cooperative and commodity loan repayments.

Governor Lawal has tasked the Commissioner for Finance with enforcing the suspension and notifying all affected cooperative societies and vendors. Only statutory deductions, such as PAYE, union dues, NHF, ZAMCHEMA, water rates, and Housing Corp loans, will be permitted moving forward.

The administration’s commitment to improving civil servants’ welfare was also reiterated in the statement, highlighting efforts to enhance working conditions and provide the necessary resources for a motivated and productive workforce.

“The present administration in Zamfara State is committed to implementing measures that support the welfare and development of civil servants. These include enhancing working conditions, providing necessary resources, and creating a conducive environment to ensure a highly competent, motivated, and productive workforce,” the statement said.