Joseph Otirhue Embarks on Working Visit to Local Government Areas in Delta State

Joseph Otirhue Embarks on Working Visit to Local Government Areas in Delta State

By Queen Stephanie Ikanone Odiete

In a bid to bolster the efficiency and effectiveness of the Delta State Local Government Service Commission, Dcn. Joseph Otirhue,  chairman of the Delta State Local Government Service Commission, has commenced a working visit to several local government areas in the State. This visit seeks to facilitate direct interactions with the Commission's employees and address crucial concerns affecting the service.

During his familiarization visit to Okpe, Warri North, Ethiope West, Ughelli South, Patani, Warri South, Bomadi, Isoko South, Sapele, and Uvwie local government areas, Joseph Otirhue delivered a speech highlighting the core mandate of the Commission. This includes; promoting, training, retraining, and disciplining the service's staff. He emphasized the significance of adhering to established rules and regulations as they play a pivotal role in successfully implementing the M.O.R.E. agenda of the Delta State Government, His Excellency, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori at the grassroots level.

 Otirhue drew attention to various critical issues observed within the service during his address. One of the concerns raised was the frequent submission of staff correspondence that fails to comply with the service's rules and regulations, which are forwarded to the Commission for consideration. He stressed that only applications, appeals, and protests/petitions adhering to existing regulations should be submitted to the Commission.

Another issue addressed was the submission of Annual Performance Evaluation Reports (APERs) to the Commission. To facilitate a smooth promotion process, a new template for APER submission has been approved. Employees eligible for promotion in the January promotion series must submit their duly processed APERs for the past three years in November. Similarly, those due for promotion in the July promotion series should submit their APERs in May.

Chairman Otirhue also shed light on the restriction of the use of Higher National Diploma (HND) certificates for entry and progression in officer cadres. He emphasized that a recognized degree certificate in the relevant academic discipline is the requirement for entry and progression within any officer cadre in the Delta State Local Government Service Commission. The use of HND certificates for entry and progression is considered an anomaly, and affected employees are advised to obtain relevant Post Graduate Diplomas or First Degree Certificates to secure promotions to avoid stagnation.

The efficient operations of Local Government Staff Multipurpose Cooperative Societies were also discussed. Chairman Otirhue acknowledged the importance of these cooperatives in bolstering employees' financial well-being. However, he expressed concerns about the lack of adherence to existing rules and regulations governing these cooperative societies, which has resulted in conflicts and mismanagement of funds. He urged the Executive Committees of the Cooperative Societies to strictly comply with the rules and regulations, emphasizing that non-compliance would lead to severe sanctions.

Furthermore, Chairman Otirhue addressed the comprehensive review of inter-cadre transfers to the Legislative Officer Cadre. The Commission followed relevant circular letters and criteria to ensure fairness, equity, and justice for all officers affected by the review.

Staff discipline and attendance at work were highlighted as areas requiring improvement. Chairman Otirhue expressed disappointment with the prevalent indiscipline, including absenteeism, lateness, and unethical conduct amongst staff members. He emphasized the need for employees to familiarize themselves with the existing rules and regulations and diligently uphold them. Punctuality, dedication to duty, and adherence to the dress code were also emphasized.

Staff welfare emerged as another crucial aspect discussed during the address. Chairman Otirhue expressed concern over reports indicating delays in the payment of claims and allowances to staff, even when funds were available. He urged Heads of Personnel Management (HPMs) to make concerted efforts to ensure that staff members receive their entitlement promptly.

In conclusion, Chairman Otirhue expressed gratitude for the support received during the 8th Commission and encouraged staff to extend the same support to the 9th Commission. He emphasized the collective goal of enhancing the efficiency and vibrancy of the service.

Chairman Joseph Otirhue's working visit to various local government areas in Delta State underlines his commitment to improving the Delta State Local Government Service Commission. By addressing key issues and emphasizing the importance of adhering to rules and regulations, Chairman Otirhue aims to enhance the overall performance and effectiveness of the service.