From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The Bayelsa State Ministry of Education has debunked allegations of arbitrary deductions from contractors’ payments, describing the claims as false, unfounded, and misleading.
The clarification followed a report published in the Niger Delta Herald between July 16 and 22, 2025, with the headline “Contractors Lament Alleged Deductions by Ministry Officials in Bayelsa.”
According to the Ministry, all payments to contractors are executed strictly in line with contractual terms, financial regulations, and due process.
It added that deductions, where applicable, are limited to statutory obligations such as taxes, pension contributions, and contractually agreed retentions.
The Ministry emphasised that it operates a transparent and accountable system with multiple oversight layers to ensure fairness, insisting that no official is empowered to make arbitrary deductions.
In response to the Ministry’s position, the Niger Delta Herald has acknowledged the clarification, expressing regret over any misinterpretation the earlier report may have caused.
Editor-in-Chief of the newspaper, Mr. Francis Dufugha, tendered an unreserved apology to the state government and Governor Douye Diri, reaffirming the paper’s commitment to fairness, balance, and accuracy in its reportage.
“We remain dedicated to providing all stakeholders the opportunity to present their side of any story,” Dufugha said.
