Bayelsa begs FG to release bailout fund

The Bayelsa state government has appealed to the federal government to release the N1.3 billion bailout fund that it applied for.

John Jonah, deputy governor of the state, made the appeal on Tuesday while inaugurating three committees to advise government in handling issues relating to pension, civil service and local government.

Jonah wondered why the money was being delayed and no explanation had been given despite the fact that the request of Bayelsa was the least among all the states that have sought such assistance from the federal government.

Seriake Dickson, governor of the state, also appealed to the federal government to release the facility.

Dickson, who spoke in a statement issued on his behalf by Daniel Iworiso-Markson, his chief press secretary, said granting the request would make Bayelsa clear the backlog of salaries of local government workers in the state.

The statement said revenues accruing to the state are no longer adequate to augment salaries, adding that if released, the fund will assist to alleviate the plight of local government workers.