Governor Bassey Otu has halted the ongoing recruitment into local government service in Cross River State following complaints of misconduct in the process.
NOP NIGERIA reports that the decision was made public on Wednesday through a statement released by the Secretary to the State Government, Owan Enoh.
The announcement came after many residents raised concerns about how the exercise was being handled, with claims that job slots were being sold and that the process was not open.
The state government said the suspension was necessary to address the situation and ensure that proper procedures are followed in hiring workers into the local government system.
As part of the next step, the governor approved the setting up of a five-member panel to look into the matter.
The panel is expected to examine how the recruitment was carried out and find out if there were any breaches.
The committee will also allow members of the public to submit complaints or observations, either by speaking directly to the panel or sending written reports.
This is aimed at gathering more details about the alleged irregularities.
Findings also show that the panel has been directed to review the payroll across the 18 local government areas in the state.
This move is linked to worries that the number of workers may have been increased beyond the actual figures.
To make the process inclusive, the panel will sit in the three senatorial districts of the state. It also has the power to invite anyone who may have useful information for the investigation.
The government assured residents that the action taken is meant to promote fairness and proper conduct in public service.
It added that anyone found guilty after the investigation will face punishment in line with the law.
