Kogi denies claims of ethnic bias in civil service jobs

The Kogi State Government on Saturday reacted to a viral voice note attributed to a female civil servant.

The voice note expressed concerns over the alleged exclusion of Ebira youths from employment opportunities within the state civil service.

A statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, said the government under Governor Ahmed Ododo is “firmly anchored on the principles of inclusivity, active listening, constructive engagement, and responsive governance.”

Fanwo said the government had also taken note of reactions generated by a related video circulating on the matter.

He said the governor remains a servant-leader, entrusted with the mandate of the people through the ballot.

He noted that while the views expressed in the voice note represent the personal opinion of the individual, which she is fully entitled to under the law, civil servants are guided by established channels for communication and redress.

“Nonetheless, this administration is committed to upholding freedom of expression and will neither suppress nor persecute any citizen for peacefully expressing their views,” he said.

According to him, “it is, however, regrettable that certain individuals and groups have sought to sensationalise the issue in a manner capable of inflaming public sentiment.

“The matter, in reality, remains within the realm of constructive engagement and institutional resolution.

“He has, therefore, directed that the concerned civil servant be accorded full protection, while also mandating the civil service to strengthen internal feedback mechanisms to ensure that grievances are addressed promptly and effectively.”

He said the government reiterates that it operates on the principles of equity, fairness, and merit, adding that Ododo has sworn an oath to serve the entire state without bias or sectional preference.

“Employment into the civil service will continue to be guided strictly by competence, capacity, and the availability of resources, ensuring that all parts of the state are fairly represented,” he added.

The commissioner called on the people of the state to remain calm and disregard attempts to create unnecessary tension or spread misinformation around the issue.

“The present administration remains unwavering in its commitment to transparency, public enlightenment, and continuous engagement with citizens, particularly in clarifying government policies, programmes, and decisions.

The Kogi State Government assures all citizens that their voices matter and will always be treated with dignity and respect. Constructive dialogue, mutual understanding, and adherence to due process will continue to guide our collective progress,” he added.