Reps To Probe CBN Over Dismissal Of 600 Workers

The House of Representatives has resolved to investigate the circumstances that led to the recent sacking of about 600 staff by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).

The resolution followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance moved by Rep. Jonathan Gbefwi (SDP, Nasarawa) at plenary on Wednesday.

Moving the motion, Gbefwi noted that the CBN as part of an extensive reform has been downsizing the workforce which recently affected close to 600 employees, including directors and almost all staff in the Governor’s Directorate being terminated.

He said the exercise by the apex bank has raised significant concerns and controversies among stakeholders, including the affected employees, labour unions and the general public.

The lawmaker lamented that those affected by the CBN’s action are top-notch professionals whose skills may be lost to Europe and America, thereby, leaving the country short-changed.

Gbefwi expressed worry that these retrenchments, without fair hearing or panels could cause the nation a lot in settlements.

“A director’s tenure according to the civil service rules is two terms of four years or 60 years of service, whichever comes first. This makes them like permanent secretaries. Will the capacity being thrown away be easily replaced?

“The House is worried about staff morale and progression. People choose careers in civil service so that they can end careers like their superiors and mentors who trained them. Seeing their bosses being treated with disregard and like criminals will send a message that professionalism is not rewarded, as well as, meritorious service to our great nation Nigeria,” he argued.

Adopting the motion, the House mandated the Committees on Banking Regulations and Federal Character to look into the CBN reforms which led to the downsizing of staff members and report back within four weeks for further legislative action.