The Taraba State Government has dismissed reports claiming that allowances for personnel under the Operation Keep Taraba Clean programme have been reduced from ₦15,000 to ₦10,000, describing the allegation as false and misleading.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Re-orientation, Zainab Usman Jalingo, the government clarified that no decision has been made to reduce the monthly allowances of workers engaged through the Taraba State Environmental Sanitation Agency (TSESA).
Reports circulating in some quarters alleged that the state government had slashed the monthly stipends of sanitation personnel participating in the Operation Keep Taraba Clean initiative. The claims generated concerns among beneficiaries and members of the public.
However, the government stated that the information is entirely inaccurate and does not reflect any official policy or directive.
What the Government Said
According to the statement, the Taraba State Government has neither approved nor considered any reduction in the allowances of sanitation workers under the programme.
The government also noted that the Chairman of the Taraba State Environmental Sanitation Agency (TSESA) has never made any statement suggesting a cut in allowances.
Rather than reducing benefits, the government revealed that it is exploring ways to expand the programme by recruiting additional personnel to strengthen environmental sanitation services across the state.
The Operation Keep Taraba Clean programme plays a key role in maintaining environmental hygiene and creating employment opportunities for residents. Clarifying misinformation surrounding workers' welfare is important for maintaining trust and preventing unnecessary anxiety among beneficiaries.
Source:
Press Statement issued by Taraba State Government through the Ministry of Information and Re-orientation.
Twisdic Insight: The swift response from the Taraba State Government highlights the growing challenge of misinformation in the digital age. As governments increasingly rely on public programmes to create jobs and improve community services, timely clarification of false reports is essential to maintain public confidence. The government's indication that it is considering expanding the sanitation workforce could also signal a broader commitment to environmental cleanliness and grassroots employment in the state.