The Anambra State Government has deducted February salaries for some public workers who reportedly failed to appear for duty on a Monday when the state observed a sit‑at‑home order called by local community groups to protest insecurity. According to the government, workers who did not show up for work and had no official approval for absence had portions of their pay reduced.
The sit‑at‑home directive had led many residents and institutions to stay indoors, but state officials said that civil servants are expected to report for duty unless they have authorised leave. The Commissioner for Information in Anambra said the deductions were meant to enforce discipline and accountability in the civil service, stressing that public servants cannot use non‑governmental sit‑at‑home orders as justification for absence.
Trade unions and community members criticised the government’s decision, saying it was insensitive to the serious security concerns that prompted the sit‑at‑home call and could lower staff morale. They argued that workers should not be penalised for prioritising their personal safety in a region affected by unrest.
The government maintained that civil service rules remain in force and that workers should balance security concerns with their official duties or seek authorised leave where necessary. The controversy has sparked broader discussion about how public servants should be managed during periods of security‑related disruptions.
