Delta Government Rejects Claims Of Hidden Health Sector Hiring
Allegations of Secret Recruitment Rejected
THE Delta State Government has dismissed claims of alleged secret recruitment within its ongoing health sector employment exercise, insisting that the process remains transparent, structured, and based strictly on merit.
The clarification follows protests by some residents at the Oghara Teaching Hospital, where demonstrators accused the Ministry of Health of sidelining local applicants and conducting what they described as “clandestine employment.”
Government Defends Recruitment Process
In response, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, described the allegations as misleading, while affirming the right of citizens to peaceful protest.
He explained that the recruitment exercise is guided by established procedures designed to ensure fairness and equal opportunity for all qualified candidates, regardless of origin or community affiliation.
Merit-Based Hiring Emphasised
According to the commissioner, employment in the health sector is strictly based on competence and professional qualification, given the need to maintain high standards of healthcare delivery.
He stressed that no group or community is being favoured, and that all applications are being assessed under uniform criteria.
No Evidence of Job Sales or Backdoor Slots
Dr. Onojaeme also dismissed allegations that recruitment slots were being sold or allocated secretly, describing such claims as capable of undermining public confidence in government institutions.
He reiterated that no employment decisions are being made outside the official process.
Call for Calm and Dialogue
The commissioner urged residents to rely on verified information and avoid actions that could disrupt healthcare services in the state.
He also commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for approving the recruitment of 700 medical and non-medical staff to strengthen healthcare delivery across Delta State.
