Coalition Calls for Transparency, Adherence To Civil Service Rules

A coalition of advocacy groups, Concerned Citizens of Nigeria CCN and the Support for Credible Leadership Initiative SCLI, have raised concerns over the controversial appointment of Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as the Acting Accountant General of the Federation (AGF).

They described the December 10, 2024 decision as one that has violated the civil service rules and undermines transparency in public office.

Addressing journalists in Abuja on Friday, Nwodo Chidiebere, Esq., the convener, criticized the premature removal of the incumbent AGF, Dr. Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, whose tenure is not set to end until March 2025. Dr. Madein has been lauded for implementing measures to enhance fiscal discipline and accountability.

“This appointment is a direct threat to President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to reform the financial system and eliminate corruption,” he stated.

The coalition also disputed claims by Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga that Ogunjimi is the most senior director in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), stating that his last official posting was as a director in the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, not the OAGF, therefore raising questions about the legality of his selection.

“This situation demands urgent clarification. How did Mr. Ogunjimi become the ‘Director of Funds’ in the OAGF?, we are by this, calling for evidence of any official documentation justifying the appointment” he added

The coalition alleged that powerful individuals in the presidency orchestrated the appointment to install a compliant AGF who would prioritize personal interests over national accountability.

They reiterated that Civil service guidelines dictates that the most senior director within the OAGF, should take over as Acting AGF in the absence of a substantive holder, and identified Danladi Comfort Zakowi, Director of Finance, and Luka Joshua, Director of the Consolidated Accounts Department, as the rightful candidates for the role.

The coalition also criticized the exclusion of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Watson-Jack, from the decision-making process, claiming she was only informed of the appointment via WhatsApp after it was announced.

“This disregard for due process undermines civil service ethics and President Tinubu’s financial reforms,” Chidiebere remarked.

The groups warned of potential operational disruptions stemming from the controversy. The Accountant General’s absence from Thursday’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, a statutory requirement, is unprecedented. Additionally, the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting scheduled for today could face setbacks due to the ongoing dispute.

“The lack of a legitimate AGF poses a risk to critical financial decisions and the smooth operation of government functions.”

The coalition however called on President Tinubu to intervene and ensure proper adherence to civil service rules, urging him to either reinstate Dr. Madein or appoint a legitimate acting AGF through appropriate channels.

“Nigeria cannot afford to disregard transparency and accountability in managing its financial systems,” Chidiebere concluded. We demand answers and immediate corrective action to uphold the integrity of our institutions.” They added.