EFCC's Screening of Delta Civil Servants Sparks Tension

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has begun screening civil servants in Delta State.

Employees in several government offices undergoing the verification exercise have expressed panic, particularly those who feel vulnerable.

The exercise, which reportedly started last week, targeted major government institutions such as the Pre‑Audit Office, the Office of the Head of Service, the Office of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), and the Deputy Governor’s Office.

A staff member from the Chief of Staff’s Office, speaking anonymously, said employees did not realize the officials conducting the exercise were from the EFCC.

The source added that employees were asked to present their credentials for screening and only later learned that the exercise was being carried out by EFCC operatives.

“We were screened on Wednesday, but we were not told the officials were from the EFCC. We believed they were from the Office of the Head of Service.”

“It was only after the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) issued a statement that we realised the officials were from the anti‑graft agency,” the worker said.

The source said the purpose and authority behind the screening were unclear, calling the development unprecedented in the state.

In response, the Delta State councils of the NLC and TUC expressed concern that organized labour had not been formally notified or adequately briefed before the screening began.

A joint statement signed by NLC State Secretary Comrade Enekhawore Acrobat and TUC Secretary Okafor Henry said the labour bodies were monitoring the situation closely and would engage relevant authorities to ensure the exercise is carried out professionally, fairly, and without intimidation, harassment, or victimisation of workers.

The unions urged workers to stay calm and cooperate with the exercise, assuring them that their rights and welfare would be protected. They also advised workers to report any concerns promptly through the appropriate union channels.

When contacted, EFCC spokesperson Dele Oyewale said he was attending an event and would respond at a later time.