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 civil service.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Commissioner for Information, Kingsley Fanwo, said the administration of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo is “firmly anchored on the principles of inclusivity, active listening, constructive engagement, and responsive governance.”
Fanwo noted that the government is also aware of reactions sparked by a related video circulating on the issue.
He described the governor as a servant-leader who was given a mandate by the people through the ballot.
He added that while the opinion expressed in the voice note reflects the personal views of the individual, which she has the right to hold, civil servants are expected to follow official channels when raising concerns.
“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 further stated that “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.”
Fanwo reiterated that the government operates on fairness, equity, and merit, stressing that the governor has sworn to serve all parts of the state without bias.
“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.
He urged residents to remain calm and ignore attempts to create tension or spread misinformation, noting that the administration remains committed to transparency, public awareness, and continuous engagement with citizens.
“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.
