By Rhoda Godwin
Yenagoa, Bayelsa — In a decisive move to reinforce discipline and professionalism within the Bayelsa State Civil Service, the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Civil Service Commission, Mr. Perekiye Buruboyefe, accompanied by the Head of Service, Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer mni, and principal officers of the Commission, conducted an unannounced inspection of ministries across the state.
The surprise visits aimed to identify civil servants who habitually report late to work or absent themselves from duty without valid reasons.
The inspections, which saw teams move from office to office, highlight the state government’s renewed commitment to uphold ethics and acceptable conduct as enshrined in the public service rules. Civil servants were reminded that adherence to duty hours is a fundamental aspect of public service and a reflection of their commitment to serving the people of Bayelsa State.
Speaking during the compliance exercise, Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Nimibofa Ayawei, underscored the importance of punctuality and discipline, emphasizing that all civil servants must abide by the codes of conduct governing the public service. “Every member of the civil service is expected to uphold the standards of professionalism. The government frowns upon absenteeism and tardiness, and civil servants are enjoined to embrace the principles of diligence, accountability, and integrity,” Prof. Ayawei stated.
The Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, Mr. Perekiye Buruboyefe, addressed staff during the visit, stressing that the era of laxity in the public service was over. He warned that any form of disobedience, including lateness or unjustified absence, would attract strict disciplinary measures. “It is no longer tenable for staff to disregard rules. Our office, in conjunction with the Head of Service, will take necessary action against erring civil servants. If even the Secretary to the State Government, the fourth citizen of Bayelsa State, reports to work by 8 a.m. daily, there is no excuse for others not to be punctual,” he remarked.
While emphasizing discipline, Mr. Buruboyefe acknowledged the efforts of Governor Senator Douye Diri in fostering a motivated workforce. He noted the Governor’s provision of robust welfare packages for civil servants, asserting that such incentives should inspire staff to uphold high standards of service.
Echoing the Chairman, the Head of Bayelsa State Civil Service, Dr. Wisdom Ebiye Sawyer, expressed gratitude to the SSG, the Civil Service Commission, and principal officers for their collaborative efforts in enforcing compliance. He reiterated that government would not hesitate to invoke the rules against erring civil servants and affirmed that such joint inspections would become a routine exercise to maintain discipline across ministries.
The unannounced visits have sent a strong signal to civil servants that punctuality, responsibility, and adherence to duty are non-negotiable in Bayelsa State. As the government continues to implement strategies that enhance service delivery, civil servants are now on notice: professionalism and accountability will guide the state’s public service ethos.
