Delta Printing Corporation Faces Union Backlash Over GM Appointment Process

A major crisis is unfolding at the Delta Printing and Publishing Corporation (DPPC), the publisher of The Pointer newspaper, over the controversial appointment of a new General Manager (GM). Workers have raised alarms, accusing the board chairman, Ebenezer Okorodudu, and the acting GM, Godfrey Ubaka, of bypassing established procedures in the selection process.

Workers Threaten Shutdown Over Alleged Collusion

The workers, dissatisfied with the actions of the board and management, have warned that they will cease operations unless the proper protocols are followed in selecting the new GM. The acting GM is due to retire on February 16, 2025, and according to the DPPC’s established procedure, only the three most senior officers at grade level 17 should be considered for the role.

However, the board chairman and acting GM are accused of colluding to expand the shortlist to include 10 officers from grade levels 15 to 17 for screening on January 29, 2025. This move contradicts the organization’s usual practice, prompting strong objections from the workers.

Union Issues Ultimatum for Fair Appointment Process

In a letter addressed to the board chairman and the Executive Director of Projects (EDP) at the Delta State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (DESOPADEC), the National Union of Printing, Publishing, Products and Paper Workers (NUPPPPROW) warned that they would shut down operations if the board fails to adhere to the standard procedure for appointing the GM.

The union insists that the process must be transparent and follow the established precedent, which was previously used to appoint the acting GM and his predecessor. The letter, signed by union leaders Joy Fasindor, Clifford Obuseh, and Fidelis Asuelimen, demands a response from the board before 9am, threatening to declare a trade dispute if the process isn’t rectified.

Controversial Shortlisting Process Draws Criticism

The Office of the Head of Service is reportedly critical of the new shortlisting process initiated by the board chairman and acting GM. Despite these concerns, Ubaka, the acting GM, denied any involvement in the controversial shortlisting, placing responsibility on the board and the supervising ministry. He urged the workers to adopt a peaceful approach, focusing on positive resolutions instead of conflict.