Frustration Mounts As KWASIEC Delays Payment To Majority Of Ad-Hoc Staff From LG Election
Months after the September 21 local government elections in Kwara State, many ad-hoc staff who participated in the process are yet to receive their promised stipends. Several affected workers revealed to Kwara Reporters that the Kwara State Independent Electoral Commission (KWASIEC) initially paid a small group of ad-hoc staff, leaving the majority unpaid.
In a confusing turn of events, the commission reportedly asked unpaid workers to visit its office in Ilorin weeks ago to submit their account details. However, after an extended silence, they were again summoned to provide their bank statements, allegedly to identify those who had not yet been paid.
“They seem disorganized. First, they told us to come and write down our account details. Then, after weeks of waiting, they asked us to come back with bank statements,” one frustrated ad-hoc staff member said. “We don’t know what they are doing, and it’s exhausting.”
The delays and repeated office visits have caused significant dissatisfaction, with many staff claiming they have spent a large portion of the promised N40,000 stipend on transportation alone. “I’ve spent almost all the money I’m supposed to be paid just traveling to Ilorin from Baruten,” another worker lamented.
Others have described the process as stressful and emotionally draining. “It’s not just about the delay; it’s the lack of clear communication and the stress they are putting us through. We did our work, and we shouldn’t have to beg or chase them for our money,” one ad-hoc staffer said.
KWASIEC is yet to provide an official explanation or timeline for resolving the issue, leaving affected workers increasingly frustrated. Many are calling on state authorities and stakeholders to step in and ensure the prompt payment of their stipends to avoid further hardship.
All efforts to reach KWASIEC’s spokesperson for clarification were abortive as at the time of filing this report.
This controversy raises questions about the commission’s administrative efficiency and its commitment to honoring obligations to its workforce, especially those who contributed to the successful conduct of the elections.
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