The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has commenced a comprehensive verification exercise across the Delta State civil service as part of efforts to detect possible ghost workers, irregularities and weaknesses in the state’s payroll management system. The exercise is aimed at ensuring greater transparency, accountability and proper documentation within the public service.
The verification exercise began in Delta State in June 2026, with EFCC operatives screening the Head of Service, Dr. Mininim Oseji, alongside officials from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) during the ongoing investigation into the state’s payroll system. The exercise is focused on confirming the identities and employment records of civil servants and addressing concerns surrounding possible payroll fraud.
The development was confirmed by Dr. Oseji during a press briefing in Asaba while marking the 2026 Civil Service Week celebration. She explained that EFCC officials visited the state to examine payroll records, nominal rolls and other relevant documents connected to personnel management within the civil service.
According to the Head of Service, the anti-graft agency informed the Delta State Government that similar verification exercises were being conducted across different states as part of broader efforts to investigate suspected financial and administrative misconduct in public institutions.
Dr. Oseji stated that although EFCC officials initially offered to exempt her from the screening because of her position as the highest-ranking civil servant in the state, she rejected the exemption and insisted on undergoing the same process as other government employees.
The Head of Service said her decision was based on the need to demonstrate leadership by example and reinforce confidence in the verification process. She presented relevant official documents, including her appointment records, identification documents and other required credentials during the screening.
The EFCC exercise has attracted attention among civil servants in Delta State, with reports indicating that workers across several government offices have been subjected to verification checks involving employment records, qualifications and official documentation.
The investigation is part of a wider national concern over ghost workers, a situation where individuals who are not genuine employees allegedly remain on government payrolls, resulting in financial losses and weakening public sector accountability.
Ghost worker schemes have historically been identified as a major challenge affecting government finances, as funds meant for salaries and public services can be diverted through fake or inactive personnel records.
By verifying staff identities and employment information, authorities hope to ensure that only legitimate employees remain on the payroll and that government resources are directed toward genuine public servants.
The exercise also covers various MDAs within the state, as EFCC officials examine records that could reveal inconsistencies in recruitment processes, staff documentation, payroll entries and personnel management systems.
Dr. Oseji said the Delta State Civil Service remains committed to reforms aimed at improving professionalism, accountability and efficiency among public servants. She noted that institutional reforms remain necessary to strengthen service delivery.
She further highlighted that the state administration is working toward modernising the civil service through improved digital systems, better coordination among government agencies and stronger monitoring mechanisms.
The Head of Service added that the verification exercise aligns with the broader objective of promoting integrity and transparency in public administration.
Analysts have noted that payroll verification exercises, when properly conducted, can help governments reduce waste, improve financial planning and strengthen confidence in public institutions.
The EFCC has continued to focus on financial crimes involving public resources, including investigations into alleged payroll fraud and other forms of corruption within government systems.
The Delta State exercise is expected to provide authorities with clearer information about the actual workforce strength of the state civil service and assist in improving the management of public funds.
While the verification process continues, officials have urged civil servants with genuine records to cooperate with investigators and provide the necessary documentation required for the exercise.
The outcome of the exercise will determine whether any irregularities exist and what further administrative or legal actions may be required based on the findings.
Stone Reporters note that improving payroll transparency remains a key part of strengthening public sector governance, especially as governments continue to seek ways to maximise limited resources for development and public welfare.
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