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Senate Alerts On Employment Scam
Senate has raised alarm over the growing spate of corrupt practices being recorded in the civil service employment exercise and the public loss of confidence in the integrity of the Service employment process.
The Chairman, Senate Committee on Federal Character, Senator Awesu Kuta, raised the issue at a stakeholders’ meeting with the federal character commission, Federal Civil Service Commission, heads of parastatals and big employers with a view to addressing the deficiency.
His words, “We are worried to have found in the dailies so many things that happen during recruitment exercise of various MDAs, and we feel we should come together to discuss this matter. In many cases, some of the actions of MDAs are scandalous and this is a manifestation of the corruption that has eaten deep into the fabrics of Nigerian society.
“What is more worrisome is the fact that Federal Government jobs are meant for highest bidders. I think we must address this issue squarely. Frustration has angered citizens of the country and has removed in them, patriotism and productivity as well as anti-corruption war. Many people are no longer ready to put in their best because heads of departments give undue advantage to people of their immediate environment.”
The Chairman, Federal Character Commission, Prof. Abdurahim Oba in his speech disclosed the commission’s readiness to challenge in court, agencies who fail to comply with the provisions of the Federal Character Commission Act.
Prof Oba, who expressed the need for all parastatals to work with the commission for equitable distribution of opportunities, also noted that the injustice suffered by some zones would only be settled by ensuring that present and future employment exercises effect a balancing strategy.
Professor Oba in his speech at the meeting, had accused some MDAs of perpetually violating the federal character rules in the distribution of employment
He also pointed out that often times, what the MDAs submit to the commission turn out very different to what makes their final list, and this, he noted is a breach of the Constitution.
Senator Uche Chukwumerije; a member of the Senate committee regretted that almost all parastatals are involved in the act of bribery for employment.
Chukwumerije noted that corruption in employment is the worst level of corruption as this only ushers in ‘thiefs’, ‘more corrupt officers’ and often time ‘wrong and unqualified candidates ‘ into offices of trust.
Senator Chukwumerije suggested effective oversight exercise that will put chief executives on their toes.
His words, “The second step is to introduce very effective, comprehensive monitoring and oversight exercise that will keep everybody involved in the exercise on his or her toes. I think the committee will think about the wisdom of introducing an amendment to the law on corruption.
“Corruption in recruitment exercise should be treated and eliminated totally because it is something that has direct social consequences for the future of this country.
“Bribe taking itself is bad enough but taking bribe from a penurious unemployed candidate representative of the future leadership of this country is unpardonable.
“By taking that bribe, you have recruited one more thief into the system, you have also alienated outside, somebody better qualified and you have pushed that person into the growing cesspool of angry young people, who are materials for revolution any moment any day in this country
Responding to questions, the chairman of the Federal Civil Service Commission , Mrs Joan Ayo insisted that the civil service commission under her had complied with the provisions of federal Character Act,; considering both gender and disability conditions.
She also insisted that the commission had made all considerations based on 80 per cent merit and 20 per cent discretionary.
Nneka Amaechi-Nnadi, Abuja
The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress Christian Leaders Forum has expressed strong confidence in the capacity of All Progressives Congress (All Progressives Congress) candidates in the state to deliver effective governance if elected into office in the coming elections.
The State Coordinator of the forum, Archbishop Lucky Aroh, made this known during a breakfast and thanksgiving meeting held in Port Harcourt, where leaders gathered to pray for the stability of the party and the safety of its candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.According to him, the meeting was convened to seek divine intervention for peace, unity, and security among APC candidates across Rivers State.
“Today we are praying for APC stability in Rivers State and the security of our candidates that have been elected to contest the 2027 elections. It is a breakfast meeting,” Aroh said.
He further expressed optimism that the party’s candidates would not disappoint the people if entrusted with leadership responsibilities.
“They will not fail when elected into office. We are here as fathers of the land to let them know, and I must tell you the truth that these are the authentic people that will do well in Rivers State,” he added.
Speaking earlier, the National Chairman of the forum, Professor Olanrewaju Abraham, commended the Rivers State chapter for organizing the programme, noting that the national body of the forum believes strongly in the power of prayer.
He stated that political leadership provides an opportunity to influence society positively, including advancing moral and spiritual values, while expressing confidence that APC candidates at all levels would emerge victorious in the upcoming elections.
Also speaking, the Rivers State Women Leader of the APC, Hon. Darling Amadi, praised the forum for its commitment to prayers for peace, stability, and the protection of party candidates.
Represented by the Deputy Women Leader of the party in the state, she described the initiative as commendable and urged other political and support groups within the party to emulate the gesture in promoting unity and stability.
By: John Bibor, Menebe Emmanuel & Fortune Paibi
Prominent businessman and philanthropist, Elder Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, was celebrated in grand style as he marked his 70th birthday anniversary, with distinguished Nigerians, business leaders, and golf enthusiasts gathering to honour his remarkable contributions to society.
The colourful celebration took place at the Port Harcourt Golf Club, where friends, associates, and well-wishers converged to pay tribute to the revered elder statesman.
Chairman of the occasion, High Chief (Dr.) Ikenna Okafor, described the celebrant as a detribalised Nigerian whose generosity, humility, and commitment to humanity have earned him admiration across different communities and backgrounds.
According to Dr. Okafor, Pa Osagwe-Ogo’s impact on society and the development of his community remains unparalleled. He noted that members of the golfing community are proud to be associated with a father figure who consistently promotes the welfare and well-being of those around him.
He further stated that the history and growth of the Port Harcourt Golf Club cannot be told without acknowledging the significant role played by the celebrant, whose wisdom, encouragement, and leadership have helped sustain the club over the years.
“We are here to celebrate a man who has impacted humanity positively, a peace-loving individual and an epitome of hope for the younger generation. We pray to emulate his virtues. Today, we celebrate a bridge-builder, a trailblazer, and an iconic leader whose life continues to inspire many,” Dr. Okafor said.
He expressed delight at the large turnout of guests from various walks of life, describing it as a testament to the respect and affection Pa Osagwe-Ogo commands within and beyond Rivers State.
In his response, the celebrant, Pa Anthony Osagwe-Ogo, expressed profound gratitude to God for preserving his life and granting him the privilege of attaining the milestone age of 70.
He also thanked members of the Port Harcourt Golf Club, family members, friends, and associates for identifying with him during the celebration and for their unwavering support over the years.
The event featured the cutting of the birthday cake, presentation of awards to deserving members of the club, goodwill messages, and moments of celebration among guests.
The ceremony was attended by notable personalities from the business community, the golfing fraternity, and other sectors, all of whom joined in celebrating the life and legacy of the respected elder statesman.
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, and the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Kuru Sirawoo, have been honoured with awards of recognition in connection with the 2026 Democracy Day celebrations held in Port Harcourt.
The awards, which formed part of activities marking Nigeria’s Democracy Day on June 12, were formally presented on Tuesday at the Ministry of Information and Communications in Port Harcourt.
Presenting the awards was Hon. Abdul Hameed Oladipupo Alli, popularly known as “Mr. Nigeria,” Publisher of Asiwaju Trumpet Magazine and Achievers World International Magazine.
Governor Fubara was recognised for his efforts in sustaining peace, stability, and a conducive political atmospherJohn Bibor / Menebe Emmanuel / Fortune Paibie in Rivers State. The organisers noted that his administration has fostered harmony and strengthened civic participation across the state.
Dr. Sirawoo, on the other hand, was honoured for his exemplary administrative leadership and significant contributions to effective information management within the Ministry of Information and Communications.
Representing Dr. Sirawoo at the presentation ceremony, Dr. Christian Davies received the award on his behalf and expressed gratitude for the recognition. He described the honour as a reflection of Dr. Sirawoo’s unwavering commitment to professionalism, excellence, and dedicated public service.
Dr. Davies assured the organisers that the award would be formally conveyed to the Permanent Secretary.
The event also featured the presentation of commemorative publications highlighting major governance and civic milestones in Rivers State, including Easter celebrations, Workers’ Day activities, the Governor’s third anniversary in office, and Democracy Day programmes.
Organisers of the awards commended the Rivers State administration for what they described as sustained peace, political stability, and improved civic engagement, noting that these achievements have contributed significantly to the state’s continued development.
By: Jessica Sambol