The Anambra State Government has deducted from the February salaries of civil servants who failed to report to work during the Monday sit-at-home directive observed in parts of the South-East. The action affected workers across various ministries, departments, and agencies in the state.
State officials said the deductions were made in line with the government’s policy that public servants must be present at work on official working days. The government had earlier directed workers to disregard the sit-at-home order and carry out their duties as usual.
The Monday sit-at-home began in the South-East in 2021 and has continued intermittently, despite calls from political leaders and security agencies for its suspension. Authorities in Anambra have repeatedly insisted that government activities must not be disrupted.
According to sources within the state civil service, some workers who did not report to duty on affected Mondays noticed reductions in their February pay. The deductions were reportedly calculated based on the number of days missed.
State government representatives said attendance records were used to determine compliance. Workers who were absent without official approval were considered to have defaulted on their responsibilities.
The government maintained that it had consistently warned civil servants that absence from work on Mondays would not be tolerated. It said the deductions were not punitive but a consequence of failing to fulfill contractual obligations.
In previous statements, Governor Chukwuma Soludo had emphasized that the state would not recognize the sit-at-home order. He urged residents to go about their lawful activities and assured them of adequate security.
The government also reiterated its commitment to maintaining economic stability and restoring normalcy across the state. Officials said allowing routine shutdowns would negatively impact productivity and public services.
Some affected workers expressed concern over the salary deductions, noting the economic hardship already facing many households. They said the security situation on certain Mondays made it difficult for them to travel safely to work.
Others argued that while they support the government’s position, fear of violence and uncertainty sometimes influenced their decision to stay at home. They called for improved security measures to guarantee safe movement.
In response, the state government said it had strengthened collaboration with security agencies to ensure protection of lives and property. It added that public servants are expected to show commitment to their duties despite challenges.
The sit-at-home order, initially linked to agitation in the region, has drawn mixed reactions from residents and stakeholders. While some groups have distanced themselves from enforcing it, compliance has persisted in several communities.
Economic analysts have pointed out that repeated closures on Mondays have affected trade and reduced revenue generation in the South-East. Businesses, markets, schools, and government offices have often remained closed during the exercise.
The Anambra State Government has consistently described the development as detrimental to growth and investment. It has urged citizens to resist actions that could undermine economic progress.
Officials stressed that salary payments are tied to work performed and attendance. They said the principle of “no work, no pay” applies within the civil service framework.
The government further noted that exemptions would only apply to workers who obtained prior approval for leave or who were absent for verified official assignments. Cases of medical emergencies or other legitimate reasons are expected to be reviewed individually.
Labour representatives in the state have yet to issue a formal response to the deductions. However, some union members indicated that discussions may be initiated with the government to address workers’ concerns.
Observers say the move signals a firmer stance by the state authorities against continued disruption of public service. It also reflects broader efforts by South-East governors to end the sit-at-home practice.
The situation remains closely watched by residents and civil servants alike. Many are awaiting further clarification on whether similar deductions will be applied in subsequent months.
For now, the Anambra State Government has reaffirmed that all public servants are required to be at their duty posts on official workdays. It emphasized that ensuring uninterrupted governance remains a top priority.
