The Delta State Government has maintained that the recent appointment of Permanent Secretaries in the state civil service was based strictly on merit, seniority, and equitable representation, dismissing claims that political influence or lobbying played any role in the exercise.
Speaking to journalists on Monday in Asaba, the Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji, explained that the appointments followed a comprehensive review of vacancies and representation across the state’s local government areas.
Oseji emphasized that the appointment of Permanent Secretaries remains the exclusive prererogative of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who makes such decisions based on a broad understanding of the state’s governance requirements.
According to her, the governor considers factors beyond the scope of the civil service leadership when making appointments.
She revealed that the process began with an assessment of the distribution of Permanent Secretaries across the state. The review showed that several local government areas lacked representation at that level, prompting discussions with the governor.
Following the findings, Governor Oborevwori directed that the most senior officers from the affected local government areas be identified for consideration.
Oseji noted that the exercise eventually covered 11 local government areas and culminated in the appointment of qualified officers through what she described as a transparent and fair selection process.
She said the outcome received widespread praise, including from individuals who had initially attempted to influence the appointments.
According to the Head of Service, stakeholders were impressed by the emphasis placed on geographical balance, seniority, and merit, which strengthened confidence in the integrity of the process.
She further disclosed that none of the 11 newly appointed Permanent Secretaries approached her to seek favour or lobby for their appointments.
As further proof of the transparency of the exercise, Oseji cited the case of the Permanent Secretary appointed from Governor Oborevwori’s local government area, noting that the governor had no prior relationship with the appointee and only met him during the swearing-in ceremony.
The Head of Service advised civil servants aspiring to become Permanent Secretaries to focus on competence, diligence, and dedication to duty rather than engaging in lobbying.
She stressed that promotion to the position is highly competitive and depends on several factors, including available vacancies, seniority rankings within local government areas, and individual merit.
Oseji explained that being the most senior officer in a local government area does not automatically guarantee appointment as a Permanent Secretary before retirement, as multiple considerations influence the selection process.
She urged public servants to remain committed to excellence, noting that dedication and performance remain critical factors in career advancement.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Oborevwori administration to transparency, fairness, and professionalism, Oseji assured civil servants that appointments and promotions in the state service would continue to follow due process and established regulations.
