The Chairman of the Taraba State Environmental and Sanitation Agency (TESA), Hon. Illiya Kefas, has dismissed reports linking his office to the recent reduction in the salaries of workers within the agency, insisting that the deductions were neither initiated nor approved by the agency’s management.
Kefas made the clarification amid growing concerns among workers and members of the public following reports of salary cuts that sparked debate across the state.
Speaking on the development, the agency chairman described claims that his administration was responsible for the reductions as misleading and inaccurate. He maintained that the agency remained committed to the welfare of its workforce and had not taken any decision to slash employees’ salaries.
According to him, salary administration and payroll management are handled through established government processes and institutions, stressing that any adjustments to workers’ remuneration are subject to broader administrative and financial procedures beyond the direct control of the agency.
Kefas urged workers and the public to disregard what he described as false narratives aimed at tarnishing the image of the agency and its leadership.
“The reports suggesting that the Environmental and Sanitation Agency ordered or approved salary reductions are not true. The agency has not implemented any policy to reduce workers’ salaries, and we remain committed to protecting the interests and welfare of our employees,” he said.
The chairman further explained that the agency has continued to work closely with relevant government authorities to ensure that issues affecting staff welfare are properly addressed. He noted that management remains open to dialogue and engagement with workers to resolve concerns and prevent misinformation.
The controversy emerged after reports circulated alleging that employees of the agency had experienced reductions in their monthly earnings. The development reportedly generated anxiety among affected workers, with some expressing concerns over the impact of the deductions on their livelihoods amid prevailing economic challenges.
In response, Kefas called for calm and urged workers to seek clarification through official channels rather than relying on speculation or unverified information circulating on social media.
He emphasized that the agency values the contributions of sanitation workers and other personnel whose efforts are critical to maintaining environmental cleanliness and public health across Taraba State.
The chairman also reiterated the commitment of the Taraba State Government to improving working conditions and ensuring efficient service delivery within public institutions.
Labour stakeholders and public sector observers have noted that salary-related issues often generate significant concern among workers, particularly in a period marked by rising living costs and economic pressures. They stressed the importance of transparency and timely communication from relevant authorities whenever payroll adjustments occur.
As discussions continue, workers are expected to engage with government officials and agency management to seek further clarification regarding the reported salary changes and the factors responsible for the deductions.
Meanwhile, the Taraba State Environmental and Sanitation Agency has assured employees that it will continue to collaborate with appropriate authorities to address concerns affecting staff welfare while maintaining its mandate of promoting environmental sanitation and public health across the state.
