Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has begun a comprehensive verification exercise across Delta State’s civil service as part of efforts to identify ghost workers and strengthen the integrity of the state’s payroll system.
Gatekeepers News reports that the exercise, which involves officials from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), also saw the screening of the state Head of Service, Dr. Mininim Oseji.
Speaking at a press briefing in Asaba on Monday to commemorate the 2026 Civil Service Week celebration themed, “Reforms, Resilience and Results,” Oseji disclosed that EFCC operatives visited the state to scrutinise payroll records, nominal rolls and other personnel documents.
She explained that the anti-graft agency informed the state government that the exercise forms part of a nationwide investigation into suspected irregularities in public sector personnel and payroll administration.
According to her, the EFCC noted that it possesses the statutory authority to investigate any financial or administrative misconduct linked to government payroll systems.
Oseji revealed that although EFCC officials offered to exempt her from the screening process because of her position as the highest-ranking civil servant in the state, she declined and chose to participate alongside other workers.
“I told them no. As the number one civil servant in the state, I must lead by example. I insisted on being screened,” she said.
The Head of Service said she presented documents including her letter of first appointment, records reflecting her change of name from her maiden name, her official identity card and her appointment letter as Head of Service.
She added that the EFCC team was satisfied with the documentation provided.
“So far, we have not received any complaints. I am regularly briefed by the officer assigned to accompany the EFCC team throughout the exercise,” she said.
Beyond the verification exercise, Oseji reaffirmed the Delta State Civil Service’s commitment to institutional reforms and improved service delivery.
She stated that the state government remains focused on promoting professionalism, patriotism, accountability, integrity, innovation and excellence in the public service.
According to her, ongoing reforms are aimed at modernising service delivery through improved digital infrastructure, stronger collaboration among government agencies, merit-based appointments and greater inclusiveness within the civil service.
