Population Commission Warns Officers Against Manipulation Of Data 

The National Population Commission (NPC) has issued a stern warning to officers participating in data collection for the 2023-2024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), emphasizing the crucial need for accuracy in information obtained from respondents.

Mr. Chidi Ezeoke, the Federal Commissioner of NPC representing Anambra State, conveyed this warning during a press conference held on Thursday in Awka. Speaking through Dr. Joachim Ulasi, the state Director of NPC, Ezeoke stressed that any attempt to manipulate data could have detrimental effects on both the officers involved and the nation as a whole. He, however, provided assurance that the selected officers, having undergone a rigorous three-week training, were reliable and committed to delivering accurate results.

Ezeoke urged officers not to engage in data manipulation or self-interviews, emphasizing the importance of obtaining diverse views when interviewing respondents. He underscored the significance of adhering to survey principles and ethical practices, expressing his belief in the principle of Karma, where any form of manipulation could adversely affect both the officers and the nation in the long run.

The survey, slated to cover 20 local government areas in the state (excluding Ayamelum, covered in a 2018 Verbal and Social Autopsy survey), is scheduled to run from December 7 to April 21, 2024. It will encompass 38 clusters across the selected localities. The Federal Commissioner highlighted the survey’s role in shaping evidence-based policies, enhancing public health interventions, and contributing to the overall development agenda of the state.