By Simon Utebor,The Nation

Copyright thenationonlineng

…as Commissioner hails Oborevwori on infrastructure devt

Delta State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, has defended the state government’s decision to reinforce the civil service dress code, stressing that the policy is rooted in existing regulations and designed to uphold professionalism in the public service.

Speaking on ‘Morning Express’, a flagship programme on ADBN Television, Aniagwu clarified that the policy is not new but a reminder of long-standing civil service rules requiring decency and corporate appearance for officers while on duty.

He explained that civil servants are bound by the Nigerian Constitution, state laws, and the Delta State Civil Service Rules, which clearly stipulate standards of conduct and dress code.

Quoting Chapter One, Code 01001, and Code 04314 on page 42 of the rules, he noted that all civil servants are mandated to dress decently whenever in office or representing the state government.

Aniagwu added that the regulation aligns with practices in the private sector, where organisations such as banks enforce corporate identity and standards of appearance.

“When people applied for jobs, they came dressed properly, not in rags. So why would they suddenly change after securing employment? Just as banks and other corporate institutions enforce standards, the civil service must also reflect decency and discipline,” Aniagwu argued.

On concerns about wardrobe allowances, Aniagwu dismissed claims that the directive would impose financial strain, noting that civil servants already spend significantly on personal events.

“Our brothers and sisters attend weddings, parties, and other functions where they dress elegantly. If they can afford that, then the workplace, which pays their bills, also deserves that level of decency,” he maintained.

The commissioner recalled that the dress code had been emphasized as far back as the Chief James Ibori administration, and later reinforced under Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan.

He said the present government under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is only ensuring compliance, not introducing a new policy.

Reacting to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) protest over non-consultation, Aniagwu emphasized that the Head of Service, as the number one civil servant in the state, is legally empowered to issue such directives and had, in fact, engaged permanent secretaries and key stakeholders on effective implementation.

Read Also: Delta police arrest suspected notorious armed robbers attacking churches

Aniagwu further clarified that the policy does not intrude into personal lives, stressing that civil servants are free to wear what they please outside the workplace.

Meanwhile, the state Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work at the Orere Bridge project in Ughelli South Local Government Area, describing it as another clear testament to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s unwavering commitment to completing inherited projects.

Speaking during an inspection tour of the project on Thursday, Izeze acknowledged the challenges posed by heavy rains and difficult terrain but noted that the contractor, J.U. Obakpor Engineering Company, had demonstrated remarkable resilience and adherence to specifications.

“As you can see, despite the elements, the contractor is delivering. From what I have observed and confirmed with our supervising engineers, the structural work is satisfactory and strictly in line with the approved memo. There is no cause for alarm,” he said.

The Commissioner highlighted the progress recorded on the main alignment, reinforcement, and sand-filling works, stressing that critical milestones had been achieved.

He disclosed that the firm was sourcing sharp sand from Kaiama and Bomadi through barges, a process that required significant logistical effort but had not slowed down the pace of delivery.

The Orere Bridge, when completed, is expected to significantly improve connectivity, boost economic activities, and enhance the quality of life for residents of Ughelli South and neighbouring communities.