The Delta State Government has reaffirmed its support for the ongoing civil service screening exercise, declaring that only discipline, integrity, and decency will be tolerated in the state’s workforce.
Addressing journalists in Asaba, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the screening was necessary to restore credibility to the service, which had been tainted by falsification of records, abuse of privileges, and disregard for official dress codes.
Aniagwu lamented that some officers manipulated their records by presenting unrealistic primary school certificates that suggested they enrolled in school at birth.
He insisted that government would not overturn the screening committee’s recommendations, particularly those advising officers to proceed on retirement.
He added that civil servants who had abandoned duty by staying abroad for years while still drawing salaries from the state would be expunged from the payroll, with steps taken to recover the funds they had illegally collected.
“If there is anybody advised by the screening committee to retire, government fully supports that decision.
“We cannot continue to accommodate individuals who falsify their age or live abroad while collecting salaries meant for those working here,” Aniagwu stressed.
On the issue of dressing, the commissioner reminded civil servants that decency and corporate appearance were clearly provided for in the Civil Service Rules, citing section 04314 on page 42.
“When you come to work in spaghetti straps or slippers, you demean the image of the service. The civil service is not a free party where people can dress as they please,” he said.
Aniagwu clarified that the dress code only applies to official hours, emphasizing that it was about safeguarding the image of government institutions and promoting professionalism.
Reiterating the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to reforms under the MORE Agenda, Aniagwu assured that government would continue to uphold transparency, discipline, and efficiency across the civil service.
