The Abia State government has reaffirmed its claim that property owners were duly compensated before the ongoing demolition along the Ossah-Okpara Square axis of Umuahia. According to the Accountant General of the State, Njum Onyemenam, property owners who provided correct account details have already received their payments.
“We have received confirmations that claimants have started receiving their monies, and that is the current status,” Onyemenam stated. She further advised claimants who have accounts with the old Diamond Bank and are yet to receive their payments to obtain alternative Access Bank account numbers in order to facilitate payment. This is because the old Diamond Bank is no longer compliant with the government’s payment platform.
Onyemenam acknowledged that a significant number of claimants have not yet provided their bank details. She assured them that once they provide the correct information, they will be duly compensated. The Accountant General emphasized that the government aims to ensure that payments are made to the rightful recipients, thereby avoiding any discrepancies.
In case of any issues regarding payment, Onyemenam directed individuals to contact the Umuahia Capital Development Authority (UCDA), the agency responsible for sending claimants’ details to her office. This will enable the government to address any outstanding matters promptly.
Regarding the payment of salaries for public workers, Onyemenam confirmed that her office has commenced the disbursement of September salaries. This is in line with Governor Alex Otti’s promise to pay workers on or before the 28th of every month. She also stated that any workers who missed previous payments will be included in the September salaries.
While prioritizing pensioners, the Accountant General announced that a verification exercise will be carried out for them. However, she reassured pensioners that the exercise will be conducted in a stress-free environment, ensuring their comfort throughout the process.
