ASABA/Nigeria: The Delta State Government has declared full support for the ongoing screening of civil servants, warning that it will not tolerate falsification of age, abuse of leave of absence, or indecent dressing within the workforce.
Speaking to journalists in Asaba, the Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, said the screening exercise was aimed at sanitizing the civil service and restoring integrity to the system.
Aniagwu disclosed that some officers manipulated their records by presenting questionable primary school certificates, which falsely suggested they began formal education immediately after birth. He insisted that government would not reverse the decisions of the screening committee, particularly in cases where erring officers had been advised to retire.
“If there is anybody that has been advised by the screening committee to retire, government fully supports that decision,” Aniagwu said. “We cannot continue to accommodate individuals who falsify their age or live abroad while collecting salaries meant for those working here.”
The Commissioner also raised concern about civil servants who abused leave of absence by relocating abroad for years while still earning salaries from Delta State’s payroll. He said such cases would be treated decisively, with funds illegally collected recovered.
On the issue of dressing, Aniagwu reminded workers that the rules were not new but embedded in the Civil Service Rules, particularly Section 04314 on page 42. He stressed that decent corporate dressing was part of the professional standards expected in the public service.
“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,” Aniagwu stated. “We are not telling you how to dress at home, in church, or at nightclubs. But during official hours, we expect decency.”
He emphasized that enforcing the dress code was not about policing individuals but about protecting the image of government and ensuring respect for public institutions.
Reaffirming Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to reforms, Aniagwu said the administration will continue to uphold discipline, transparency, and professionalism in the civil service as part of its MORE Agenda.
