Governor Okpebholo suspends Edo civil service recruitment, orders review of employments since May

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has announced the suspension of all recruitment into the state’s civil service until further notice. The decision, disclosed on Friday, includes a directive for a comprehensive review of all recruitment exercises conducted by the Godwin Obaseki-led administration between May and November 2024.

In a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, and relayed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Musa Umar Ikhilor, the Governor accused government agencies and departments of engaging in clandestine recruitment practices.

“The Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo, is in receipt of a report on the clandestine activities being perpetuated by some commissions, boards, parastatals, and agencies of the state government. Preliminary investigations reveal that these bodies have continued to issue backdated letters of employment to their cronies without due process,” the statement read.

The Governor emphasized the need for fairness, equity, and transparency in employment processes, stating that all exercises must be merit-based, competitive, and accessible to all Edo State indigenes. Consequently, he directed the immediate suspension of all employment activities and a review of appointments made in recent months by various government agencies.

Investigations revealed irregularities in some ministries, including the Ministry of Education. Allegedly, the newly created Directorate of Educational Quality and Accountability (DEQA), which has not yet been legally formalized, has approved private schools and recruited 50 new staff without proper authorization. These roles reportedly overlap with those of Ministry of Education staff who were reassigned, with the Head of Service allegedly refusing to sign their letters of reassignment.

Additionally, reports indicate that the office of the Chief Inspector of Education (CIE), responsible for grassroots school monitoring, has been closed. Concerns have been raised about the sidelining of education officers and the disruption of critical oversight functions.

A senior staff member in the Ministry of Education expressed concerns over these developments: “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 decision is seen as part of broader efforts to address irregularities in government operations and ensure accountability in Edo State.