The government of Cross River has debunked media reports alleging that it had been unable to pay salaries to workers and gratuities to pensioners in the state.
This was contained in a statement signed by the state’s Head of Service, Mr. Timothy Akwaji on Tuesday in Calabar.
Akwaji said that the reports were malicious, untrue, and concocted to dent the good image of Governor Ben Ayade.
“It is unarguable that even in the face of challenging revenue inflows, coupled with suffocating debt over-hang, the Ayade led administration has religiously placed premium on payment of salaries and pension to the admiration of all.
“However, any person or group of persons who have genuine claims of being owed salaries and pensions should forward same to the HOS for investigation and further action.
“The State Government shall not hesitate to sanction or prosecute those orchestrating this malicious and cheap propaganda aimed at causing disaffection in the state,” he said.
He said that the government would remain focused on its determination to address the concerns of workers and senior citizens of the state.