The Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, on Wednesday locked out hundreds of civil servants during an unscheduled visit to the state secretariat.
The action followed his discovery of widespread absenteeism among the workforce.
Governor Alia, who arrived at the secretariat around 10:35 a.m., was on an inspection tour to assess ongoing renovation works, including the installation of new lights and enhanced security measures.
However, upon his arrival, he found only a few workers at their posts.
Acting swiftly, security personnel at the governor’s directive locked the gates, leaving tardy workers stranded outside.
During his inspection of various ministries, Governor Alia expressed disappointment over the absence of several commissioners and senior officials.
He later addressed the visibly tense crowd of civil servants gathered outside the secretariat gate, delivering a stern rebuke on their lackadaisical approach to work.
He admonished the workers, saying, “With what you are doing, you are creating a vicious circle for your families.
“You cannot get money and be uplifted because you are cheats and because of the effect of what you are doing.”
The governor, who spoke both as a leader and a clergyman, warned of the consequences of their actions, stressing that he had the authority to take drastic measures.
“I’m appealing to you because I have a quick way of getting your names and firing you as I have the power to do so. I am speaking to you as a priest and not as governor, and telling you the dangers of what you are doing,” he said.
Governor Alia further reminded the workers of their responsibilities, emphasizing the need for commitment to public service.
“It is not about me. Who is government? All of you here are the government. Even in the family, somebody governs the home, and there are rules.
“And in every government, there are rules. I am not frustrated, but I do not want you to be doomed,” he added.
The governor urged the workers to reflect on their actions and strive to fulfill their duties, not just for personal gain but for the benefit of the people who depend on their services.
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