By Adeyinka Adedipe

The Edo State Local Government Service Commission has directed Heads of Local Government Administration across the 18 local government councils to proceed on compulsory leave.

Chairman of the commission, Hon. Kabiru Adjoto, disclosed this on Wednesday while briefing journalists on the outcome of the commission’s visit to the 18 local government councils.

He stated that the affected heads of administration have also been directed to hand over to the Directors of Administrative and General Services in their respective councils.

According to him, the compulsory leave will last for 30 working days, after which the situation will be reviewed.

Adjoto, who was flanked by other members of the commission, said during the briefing:

“The Local Government Service Commission has reviewed the existing administrative framework across the 18 local government councils. Consequently, the commission hereby directs all Heads of Local Government Administration across the 18 local government councils to proceed on compulsory leave with effect from today (Wednesday).

“The measure has become very necessary to allow for a thorough assessment for improved administrative operation at the local government level.

“It will ensure a fair and objective review of posting, staff deployment, and record management practices. It will encourage transparency and restore confidence in the local government system.

“It will also provide an opportunity for a fresh administrative perspective as part of the commission’s reform agenda and on account of feedback from our familiarisation visit.

“During the period of this compulsory leave, the Director of Administrative and General Services shall oversee the day-to-day administration of every local government.

“Pending further directive from this commission, all concerned officers are advised to hand over properly and comply with this directive without delay.”

Adjoto said the commission’s task is to reposition the local government workforce to ensure the dividends of democracy reach the grassroots.

He disclosed that in the course of the ongoing digitalisation exercise, 382 shadow files and 132 retired files were discovered.

Recall that Governor Monday Okpebholo had sworn in Adjoto on August 16 as Chairman of the commission. The former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly had promised to retool local government administration in the state and prioritise workers’ welfare for optimum service delivery. (Punch)