Timinipre Seipolu, the technical adviser on Treasury and Accounts to the Bayelsa State Governor, has provided insight into the recent surge in salary expenses for political appointees, which surpassed N1 billion.
He clarified that political appointees in Bayelsa do not receive fixed salaries; instead, their remuneration is determined by the specific administrative roles they fulfill.
During a transparency briefing held in Yenagoa on Friday, covering the months of August and September 2025, Seipolu emphasized that salary payments strictly adhere to the guidelines set by the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC), dismissing any notion of arbitrary salary hikes.
He explained, “Salaries are disbursed according to RMAFC policies. The salary structure remains unchanged; the increase in total expenditure is due to the appointment of additional personnel following the inauguration of new boards.”
Seipolu also highlighted the robust financial health of the state, reporting a closing balance of N106.5 billion in August 2025, which grew to N150.5 billion by September 2025, indicating strong revenue inflows during this period.
In a related development, Koku Obiyai, the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, announced the government’s commitment to bolstering the health sector by approving the regular recruitment of healthcare professionals across Bayelsa.
Obiyai noted that this initiative addresses the challenge posed by the increasing exodus of medical personnel, often referred to as the “Japa syndrome.”
She affirmed that Governor Douye Diri’s “Prosperity Administration” is dedicated to reinforcing the healthcare system and enhancing the quality of public services.
“Hospitals are experiencing staff shortages due to the Japa syndrome, but we are actively replacing those who leave. The government prioritizes the health sector and is determined to maintain adequate staffing levels,” she stated.
The commissioner further explained that the transparency briefings are integral to the state’s strategy to foster accountability and openness in governance, enabling citizens to track government revenue inflows and expenditures on a monthly basis.
“Transparency builds trust. Our administration believes that accountability is essential. Citizens deserve to know how public funds are utilized, and Governor Douye Diri is committed to completing all ongoing projects,” Obiyai remarked.
She enumerated key infrastructure projects underway, including the Igbogene-AIT Ring Road, Glory Drive, Yenagoa-Oporoma Road, Ekeremor-Agge Road, and Polako-Sabagreia Road, all progressing steadily.
Obiyai also highlighted the state’s gas turbine power initiative, assuring that its completion will stimulate industrial growth and economic development. The installation is in progress, and the project will introduce metered electricity billing based on actual consumption.
She emphasized that the government maintains a strict policy of settling contractors only after verifying completed work, ensuring no outstanding debts. Additionally, no new projects will commence until current ones are finalized, promoting prudent resource management.
“Our goal is to establish a resilient economy that benefits all Bayelsans. We urge everyone to support the governor’s efforts to finish his term strongly and elevate Bayelsa’s status on the global stage,” she concluded.
