Governor Okpebholo Suspends Civil Service Recruitment See Why

Governor Okpebholo Suspends Civil Service Recruitment in Edo State, Citing Clandestine Activities

iexclusivenews – Governor Monday Okpebholo has announced the suspension of recruitment into the Edo State civil service until further notice. This decision comes amid allegations of clandestine recruitment activities by various government agencies and departments. The Governor has also ordered a comprehensive review of all recruitment exercises carried out by the previous administration led by Godwin Obaseki between May and November 2024.

The announcement was made on Friday and conveyed through a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua. The statement, released by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Musa Umar Ikhilor, highlighted the Governor’s concerns about the ongoing recruitment activities.

This online news media gathered that Governor Okpebholo accused several commissions, boards, parastatals, and agencies of the state government of engaging in clandestine recruitment activities. Preliminary investigations revealed that these bodies had been issuing backdated letters of employment to their cronies without following due process. The Governor emphasized that his administration is committed to fairness and equity, with all employment exercises expected to be merit-based, competitive, and accessible to all Edo indigenes.

In light of these allegations, Governor Okpebholo directed the immediate suspension of all employment processes. He also called for a review of all appointments made since May 2024 by various government agencies. This move aims to ensure transparency and accountability in the recruitment process.

However, an investigation by Vanguard revealed that one of the ministries involved in the alleged clandestine activities is the Ministry of Education. The controversy centers around the creation of the Directorate of Educational Quality and Accountability (DEQA), which has not yet been passed into law but has been approving private schools—a responsibility that legally belongs to the Ministry of Education.

Secret Recruitment Allegations

The DEQA has allegedly “secretly recruited 50 new staff” after Governor Okpebholo’s election, taking over the roles of Ministry of Education staff who were reassigned. Further claims state that the Head of Service has refused to sign their letters to return to the Ministry. There were also reports that the office of the Chief Inspector of Education (CIE), which traditionally monitors schools at the grassroots level, has been closed.

Meanwhile, a senior staff member in the Ministry of Education told Vanguard, “Reopening the field offices, recalling sidelined education officers, and streamlining the functions of various directorates are critical first steps. This is not just about fixing a broken system; it’s about ensuring that every child in Edo State has access to quality education that prepares them for the future.”

Governor Okpebholo’s Commitment to Reform

Governor Okpebholo’s decision to suspend civil service recruitment and review past appointments underscores his commitment to reforming the state’s employment practices. By addressing the allegations of clandestine recruitment, the Governor aims to restore transparency and fairness in the recruitment process. His administration is determined to ensure that all employment exercises are conducted in a manner that benefits the people of Edo State.

The suspension of civil service recruitment in Edo State by Governor Monday Okpebholo marks a significant step towards addressing allegations of clandestine activities and ensuring transparency in the recruitment process. As the review of past appointments begins, the Governor’s commitment to fairness and equity will be crucial in restoring public trust and ensuring that employment opportunities are accessible to all Edo indigenes. The outcome of this review will be closely watched, as it holds significant implications for the state’s civil service and its future development.