By Kelvin Ololo
The panel investigating the recent recruitment exercise conducted by the Cross River State Local Government Service Commission has called on applicants who allegedly paid money in exchange for employment opportunities to come forward with evidence.
In a press release dated May 26, 2026, signed by the Panel Secretary, Ntunkae Mary-Theresa Ikwen, and made available to CrossRiverWatch newsroom, the panel said it had received reports of individuals allegedly collecting money from unsuspecting applicants with promises of securing job placements upon the completion of the panel’s assignment.
The panel advised affected applicants who made such payments but were later shortchanged to report the matter through available communication channels for possible retrieval and repayment of the funds.
According to the statement, applicants are expected to provide relevant information and evidence that could assist the panel in its ongoing investigation and help facilitate appropriate action.
The release also announced an extension of the screening exercise for newly employed local government workers who were unable to attend the earlier screening sessions at designated centers.
It stated that the final deadline for the screening exercise is Friday, May 29, 2026, by 4:00 p.m.
The panel disclosed that a mop-up screening exercise is currently taking place daily at the Conference Room of the Office of the Head of Service, New Secretariat Complex, Calabar, between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
The ongoing investigation follows public concerns and controversies surrounding the local government recruitment process in the state, which led to the constitution of a panel to review the exercise.
The panel urged all affected persons to comply with the directive and provide verified information to support the investigation.
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