Delta Assembly Sets Up Committee to Probe DELSU Recruitment Exercise

The Delta State House of Assembly (DSHA) has constituted an ad hoc committee to investigate the recent recruitment exercise conducted by the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka, following allegations of gross irregularities.

The decision came after the Assembly received a petition from two citizens representing the “Concerned Stakeholders of Delta State,” accusing the university’s Governing Council and Management of violating the approval granted by the Visitor to the University and Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori.

According to the petition, the university allegedly employed over 400 persons—exceeding the Governor’s approved recruitment quota of 100 by more than 300 positions.

Announcing the formation of the investigative panel during plenary, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Dennis Guwor, named the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, as Chairman of the committee, while the Clerk of the House, Barr. Oto Aghoghopia, was appointed Secretary.

Five other lawmakers were also included as members of the ad hoc committee. The Speaker directed the panel to conduct a comprehensive investigation and submit its findings within three weeks.

Presenting the petition, the Chief Whip, Hon. Perkins Umukoro, stated that Governor Oborevwori had, in January 2024, approved the recruitment of 100 new staff for DELSU to address critical manpower shortages.

However, the petitioners alleged that the university’s management disregarded the directive, going ahead to hire over 400 individuals, in what they described as a violation of executive approval, due process, and fiscal discipline.

They argued that the move raises serious governance and ethical concerns regarding transparency and accountability in state-owned institutions.

“This petition is made in good faith and in the collective interest of the people of Delta State,” the petitioners stated. “We trust that the Delta State House of Assembly, as the representative arm of the people and guardian of accountability, will act swiftly to address this breach of executive authority and safeguard the integrity of governance in our state.”

The Assembly’s ad hoc committee is expected to summon relevant parties, including members of the university’s Governing Council, management officials, and representatives from the Ministry of Higher Education, as part of its inquiry.