Stay At Home, Wike Orders Civil Servants

Rivers State Government has directed Civil Servants on Grade Levels 1-13 to stay at home following the spike in COVID-19 cases in the state.

A late night statement by the Head of Service,, Rufus Godwins, said the decision followed a directive from the Governor Nyesom Wike.

The statement said the directive takes effect from January 20, 2021, adding workers from grade level 14 should take over the responsibilities of the affected officers.

It urged all Permanent Secretaries of Ministries and Heads of Parastatals and agencies to ensure full compliance.

The statement reads: “Following the current increase in the number of COVID 19 cases, in the second wave of the pandemic, his Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has directed all civil servants on salary scale 01-13 except those on essential duty to stay away from duty forthwith.

“While officers from Grade levels 14 and above, should be on duty and assume full responsibilities for their offices till further notice.

“Accordingly, all Permanent Secretaries and Heads of extra ministerial offices should ensure compliance with this directive and observe strictly all COVID19 protocols.

“This directive which takes effect from Wednesday 20th January 2021, shall remain in force until his excellency directs otherwise.”