The Akwa Ibom State Government has announced plans to provide another opportunity for candidates who passed the Computer-Based Test (CBT) but missed the oral interview in the ongoing civil service recruitment exercise.
There were reported cases of absenteeism in some ministries during the oral interview stage.
The Chairman of the Civil Service Commission, Mrs. Ekereobong Umoh, made this known while hosting the Government House Documentary Team, led by the Senior Special Assistant to the State Governor on Research and Documentation, Dr. Essien Ndueso, who visited to observe the interview process. She assured that there would be no penalty for candidates who were absent, as a spillover date would be scheduled to allow them to participate.
Mrs. Umoh commended the Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for ensuring fairness in the recruitment process by providing all candidates with a level playing field.
She stressed that the Governor was instrumental in approving a special “spillover” opportunity for candidates who passed the CBT but were unable to attend the oral interview, enabling them to complete the process.
“You can’t punish the candidates because many reasons could have prevented them from meeting the scheduled date,” she said.
“There was a candidate who had an accident on his way from Calabar. When we were informed, I told the person not to worry, as another day would be set aside for those who missed out.”
Mrs. Umoh explained that organizing the exercise by sectors or areas of specialization has helped ensure a smooth process devoid of complications.
Some candidates also expressed satisfaction with the exercise. One of them, Mr. Obioata Ekanem, a candidate for the Information Officer position, commended the government for the transparency and fairness of the process.
“I was nervous at first, but the panel was very professional and fair, making the environment conducive,” he said.
The civil service interview process is expected to continue in batches until all shortlisted candidates have appeared before the panel, after which successful applicants will be announced.
