The Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, 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 commission was dissolved six days after Otu sacked the Commission’s Chairman, Darlington Bassey, over alleged involvement in employment racketeering and other irregular recruitment activities.
In a statement issued late Monday by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Linus Obogo, Otu expressed deep concern over the unethical practices uncovered in the recruitment process, describing them as a betrayal of public trust and an affront to the core principles of public service.
He noted that the compromised recruitment exercise, which he had earlier suspended, remains on hold pending the conduct of a fresh process that will be transparent, merit-driven, and reflective of his administration’s commitment to accountability.
“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 statement read.
The Governor assured Cross Riverians that his government is committed to rebuilding trust in the system and ensuring that opportunities within the public service are accessible only through due process.
He further 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.
