Arewa Renaissance Initiative has raised the alarm over alleged backdoor manipulation within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) treasury department’s succession plans.
The controversy revolves around the appointment of a new director after the retirement of the incumbent director, who recently reached the age of 60.
The Arewa Renaissance Initiative urged the minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Nyesom Wike to investigate and prevent what they perceive as an attempt to impose an unqualified candidate for the directorship role.
Their concerns stem from the candidate’s purported lack of chartered accountancy certification and membership in the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria, which they argue are essential criteria for holding financial positions in government.
The head of the group’s financial affairs, Usman Babangida, in a statement, said that credible intelligence supports their claim that the situation in the FCT Treasury Department differs from standard tenure appointments.
The group argued that this is a matter of career progression, not tenure, making it essential to ensure the appointment aligns with the necessary qualifications and professionalism required for responsible financial management.
Furthermore, the Arewa Renaissance Initiative highlighted a perceived misuse of a circular from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, which directed directors in parastatals and extra-ministerial departments to proceed on retirement.
They assert that this circular does not apply to the FCT treasury department’s situation, emphasizing that it’s essential to uphold standards to prevent potential conflicts and rancour.
The group also calls on the secretary to the government of the federation, George Akume to address this issue seriously, as they believe his circular is being misinterpreted to support what they view as an unlawful and unprofessional appointment.
They stressed that the finances of the entire FCT administration are too sensitive to be entrusted to an individual lacking the professional qualifications required for such a role.
The controversy is compounded by claims that the immediate past Treasury Director advised against appointing the most senior non-professional director, citing potential risks.
Instead, the former director handed over the reins to the most professionally qualified senior director, highlighting the importance of having financial leaders with appropriate backgrounds.
