Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has called for renewed accountability, and productivity within the state’s workers as he inaugurated the newly completed Local Government Service Commission Complex in Calabar.
Speaking at the inauguration on Wednesday, Otu reiterated that no project would be abandoned under his administration.
He said his government has already completed about 40 per cent of previously abandoned projects and continues to lay a strong foundation for economic growth across the state.
He emphasised his administration’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of workers while sanitising the public service.
He charged civil servants to reciprocate the government’s investment by promoting efficiency and eliminating systemic issues such as the proliferation of ghost workers.
He said, “We will continue to play our part as a responsible government. But we also expect you, the workforce, to rise to the occasion. Let our efforts motivate you to be more committed and productive.
We are working toward ensuring that gratuities are paid within one week of retirement, but the persistent issue of ghost workers continues to hinder our progress.”
Otu described the Local Government Service Commission as one of the most neglected institutions in the state and stated that its rehabilitation is part of a broader initiative to revitalise abandoned government infrastructure across the state.
The Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Chief Felix Idem, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Mrs. Caro Asikpo, commended the project, describing the new complex as a beacon of institutional revival and a reflection of purposeful leadership.
She stated, “This facility is more than just a building; it is a powerful symbol of the administration’s determination to restore excellence and integrity to the civil service.
“It represents hope, aspiration, and a call to duty.”
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Darlington Bassey, lauded the governor for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to institutional development.
We have always known His Excellency as a man of action, right from his days in the House of Representatives. This project is not just a legacy, it is a challenge to do more.
Already, we have uncovered over 200 ghost workers in the system, and we are taking decisive steps to eliminate them.
For the first time in many years, local government administration is being restored to its rightful place. We are proud landlords and ready to deliver,” he said.
