Cross River Govt to compensate applicants scammed during 2024/2025 LG recruitment

The Cross River State Government has pledged to compensate individuals potentially defrauded during the cancelled 2024/2025 local government recruitment. In a disappointing turn of events, the exercise was abandoned due to allegations of corruption, unethical practices, and violation of public service ethics. However, the government has decided to reinstate recruitment for 4,000 workers in the service, following the cancellation, but only 821 individuals whose appointment had been approved by the governor would retain their positions.

Chairman of the Cross River State Local Government Service Commission, Eyo Ekpo, revealed plans for compensating affected applicants on a radio show. Ekpo assured that the modalities for compensation were being worked out and that affected candidates would be allowed to reapply when a new recruitment portal becomes available within the next fortnight. He emphasized the importance of a fair, transparent recruitment process and expressed sympathy for those who may have been scammed.

The government's decision to cancel the entire recruitment process followed the submission of a report by an enquiry panel. The panel highlighted that the exercise lacked the governor's approval, breached public service ethics, and violated financial regulations. They also identified institutional issues such as ineptitude, lack of transparency, and accountability.

The government has expressed its intention to investigate the cancellation and prosecute those found guilty, while ensuring that legitimately hired personnel continue receiving their salaries.