The Delta State government has demoted two engineers for fraudulently issuing certificates of job completion for unfinished road projects.
The affected officers are Gabriel Evuarhere, who was demoted from Deputy Director to Assistant Director, and Samuel Nwokolobia, who was downgraded from Assistant Director to Chief Engineer.
Their demotions were detailed in a letter conveying the findings of a disciplinary committee. The letter, signed by William Ogolokpe on behalf of the Head of Service, stated that the officers were found culpable of corrupt practices.
The letter obtained by newsmen reads, “That you Engr. Gabriel Evuarhere is found culpable of corruption, dishonesty, and failure to adhere to laid down procedure and thereby reduced you in rank by one salary grade level from the post of Deputy Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 16 to that of Assistant Director (Civil Engineer), SGL 15 with effect from 1st January 2024.
“That you Engr. Samuel Nwokolobia is found culpable of corruption, dishonesty, and failure to adhere to laid down procedure and thereby reduced you in rank by one salary grade level from the post of Assistant Director (Civil Engineer) SGL 15 to that of Chief Civil Engineer, SGL 14 with effect from 1st January 2024.
“Accordingly, your next promotion to the post of Deputy Director and Assistant Director will now take effect from 1st January, 2028 and 1st January, 2027 respectively.”
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had urged the disciplinary committee to temper justice with mercy by reducing the penalty from outright dismissal to a demotion in rank.
Earlier, at an event in Asaba, the governor emphasized his commitment to ensuring quality project delivery and value for money for the people of Delta State, warning that no one would be exempt from accountability.
He also issued a stern warning that future offenders would face strict consequences under the law.
