Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State has dissolved the Board of the Local Government Service Commission following confirmed reports of employment racketeering and alleged abuse of office during the Commission’s recent recruitment exercise.
The decision was announced on Tuesday in a statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Linus Obogo, in Calabar.
According to the statement, Governor Otu expressed deep concern over unethical practices uncovered in the recruitment process, describing them as a betrayal of public trust and a violation of the principles of public service.
Otu emphasized that the suspended recruitment exercise will remain on hold until a fresh, transparent, and merit-based process is conducted, reflecting his administration’s commitment to accountability.
The statement read:
“Following reports of gross abuse of office and widespread employment racketeering in the Local Government Service Commission’s recruitment exercise, His Excellency, Senator Bassey Otu, has approved the immediate dissolution of the Board.”
It added, “The actions that came to light are unacceptable. This administration maintains zero tolerance for corruption and will not hesitate to take decisive measures to protect the integrity of public institutions.”
The governor assured Cross Riverians that his administration is committed to rebuilding trust in the public service, ensuring opportunities are awarded only through due process. He also reaffirmed that any individuals or bodies found violating established protocols would face strict sanctions as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen governance and restore public confidence.
