The Bayelsa State Commissioner representing the West Senatorial District, Hon. Michael Magbisa, has accused the state government of halting his salary, raising fresh concerns about political tensions within the state’s leadership.
Magbisa made the allegation during a telephone conversation with TrackNews, where he expressed dissatisfaction over the development. He stated that he had not received his salary and questioned the circumstances surrounding the stoppage.
According to him, his position in government effectively became uncertain following the reported death of the Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo. Magbisa said that from that moment, he no longer regarded himself as an active commissioner.
“I ceased to see myself as commissioner immediately the late Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo passed on,” he said during the call, suggesting that the situation created ambiguity around his continued role in the administration.
He further disclosed that he has vacated the official commissioners’ quarters, citing safety concerns for himself and his family. Magbisa claimed that remaining in the residence was no longer secure under the prevailing circumstances.
“I have also left the official commissioners’ quarters because my family and I are not safe,” he added, without providing further details about the nature of the alleged threats.
Magbisa also issued a deadline to the Bayelsa State Government, giving authorities until Friday to provide an explanation for the stoppage of his salary. He warned that failure to respond within the timeframe would prompt him to make a formal public statement on the matter.
The commissioner’s claims have not yet been officially addressed by the Bayelsa State Government. There has been no confirmation or denial from government officials regarding the alleged salary suspension or the issues raised by Magbisa.
Hon. Magbisa is a prominent political figure in Bayelsa State. He previously served as Chairman of Sagbama Local Government Area during the administration of former Governor Senator Henry Seriake Dickson.
In addition, he held the position of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Vice Chairman for the West Senatorial District, further establishing his influence within the state’s political structure.
Magbisa is also widely regarded as a loyal associate of Senator Dickson, who is the national leader and founder of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), a political platform that has been gaining visibility in recent times.
The latest development adds to ongoing speculation about political alignments and internal disagreements within Bayelsa State. Observers say the situation could have broader implications for governance and party dynamics in the state.
As the Friday deadline approaches, attention is focused on whether the state government will respond to Magbisa’s demands or if the commissioner will proceed with his planned public statement.
