Ghost Workers Exposed! Katsina Govt Dismisses 3,488 Over Fake Salaries Nigerians React

The Katsina State Government has dismissed 3,488 workers across 34 local government councils and education authorities after uncovering massive payroll fraud during a biometric screening exercise.

Out of 50,172 staff screened, 46,380 were successfully verified, while the rest were exposed for presenting fake credentials, failing to appear, or engaging in fraudulent practices.

Governor Dikko Radda received the committee’s report on Wednesday at the State Executive Council meeting, where it was revealed that the exercise exposed ghost workers, falsified documents, absenteeism, and illegal promotions.

The Governor confirmed that the committee also recovered ₦4.6 million from individuals who collected double salaries or continued drawing pay while on leave of absence.

Radda further noted that the screening produced Katsina’s first unified digital database of local government and education staff. If fully implemented, the reforms could save the state up to ₦453.3 million monthly and ₦5.7 billion annually.

He added that a White Paper would be prepared for full implementation, stressing:
“Despite high revenue allocations, many councils still struggle to pay salaries because of fraudulent wage bills. This reform is necessary to free up funds for grassroots development.”

Committee chairman, Abdullahi A. Gagare, disclosed that the Education Secretary of Zango LEA was directly implicated in inserting 24 ghost workers into the payroll, describing it as a “serious breach of trust.”

The screening was conducted by a 10-member panel of retired permanent secretaries, directors, and security officials, assisted by 16 co-opted members.