The Kogi State Government has responded to a viral voice note allegedly made by a female civil servant, which raised concerns about the exclusion of Ebira youths from employment opportunities in the state’s civil service.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, said the administration of Governor Ahmed Ododo is “firmly anchored on the principles of inclusivity, active listening, constructive engagement, and responsive governance.”
Fanwo noted that the government is aware of public reactions generated by both the voice note and a related video circulating online. He emphasised that Governor Ododo remains committed to serving all citizens, having been elected through a democratic mandate.
While acknowledging that the views expressed in the voice note reflect the personal opinion of the individual, Fanwo stressed that civil servants are expected to follow established channels when raising concerns or seeking redress.
“Nonetheless, this administration is committed to upholding freedom of expression and will neither suppress nor persecute any citizen for peacefully expressing their views,” he said.
He added, “it is, however, regrettable that certain individuals and groups have sought to sensationalise the issue in a manner capable of inflaming public sentiment.
“The matter, in reality, remains within the realm of constructive engagement and institutional resolution.
“He has, therefore, directed that the concerned civil servant be accorded full protection, while also mandating the civil service to strengthen internal feedback mechanisms to ensure that grievances are addressed promptly and effectively.”
The commissioner reiterated that the state government operates on principles of fairness, equity, and merit, stressing that recruitment into the civil service is based on competence and available resources.
“Employment into the civil service will continue to be guided strictly by competence, capacity, and the availability of resources, ensuring that all parts of the state are fairly represented,” he added.
Fanwo also urged residents to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation or fueling tensions over the issue.
“The present administration remains unwavering in its commitment to transparency, public enlightenment, and continuous engagement with citizens, particularly in clarifying government policies, programmes, and decisions.
“The Kogi State Government assures all citizens that their voices matter and will always be treated with dignity and respect. Constructive dialogue, mutual understanding, and adherence to due process will continue to guide our collective progress,” he added.
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