The Federal Government has approved an increase of between 25 percent and 35 percent salary increase for civil servants on the remaining six consolidated salary structures.

The salary increase, announced on the eve of the Workers’ Day celebration, is contained in a statement issued on Tuesday by Emmanuel Njoku, head of press, at the national salaries, incomes and wages commission (NSIWC).

The statement said the increase takes effect from January 1, 2024.

Details later…

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has arraigned Ademola Banu, a former commissioner for finance in Kwara, over alleged money laundering and misappropriation of state funds to the tune of N1.22 billion.

Banu was arraigned on Monday before Evelyn Anyadike, judge of the federal high court in Ilorin, Kwara state capital.

He is alleged to have conspired to divert the funds during the administration of Abdulfatah Ahmed, former governor of Kwara, between May 2011 and May 2019, while serving as the commissioner for finance.

In a press statement on Tuesday, Dele Oyewale, EFCC spokesperson, said Banu was to be arraigned alongside the former governor on February 23 but was absent in court and had no legal representation.

The court then issued a bench warrant against him upon an application by Rotimi Jacobs, counsel to the EFCC.

The former governor was arraigned on the 12-count charge and the matter was adjourned till April 29.

At the resumed sitting, Ahmed and Banu, listed as the first and second defendants, respectively, were present in court.

When the case was called, A. A. Ajibade announced the appearance for Ahmed, while Gboyega Oyewole represented Banu.

Oyewole prayed the court to discharge the bench warrant earlier issued against his client, which the EFCC counsel did not oppose.

In a short ruling, Anyadike vacated the bench warrant on the second defendant.

Banu pleaded not guilty to the counts.

The Federal Government has declared Wednesday as a public holiday to mark the Workers’ Day celebration.

Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, minister of interior, announced the public holiday in a statement on Tuesday.

The minister, who reiterated the need for excellence, efficiency and equity in all spheres of labour, reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, productivity, and inclusivity in the workplace.

“In alignment with this year’s theme, which focuses on ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate, I wish to state that the Federal Government remains steadfast in its resolve to prioritise the safety and well-being of all citizens,” the statement reads.

“Let me reaffirm Mr. President’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for work, where every worker can thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.”

Tunji-Ojo called for proactive measures to mitigate adverse effects of climate change through synergy in in the implementation of sustainable practices and policies that promote well-being in the workplace and in building a nation guided by the principles of integrity, diligence and compassion.

He also urged Nigerians to remain committed to the present administration’s renewed hope agenda.