The civil society group Pro-Impact Initiative has condemned recent attempts to tarnish the reputation of the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Mrs Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, and the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack.
This backlash comes in response to President Bola Tinubu’s decision to allow the AGF to complete her tenure before appointing a successor.
During a press conference in Abuja over the weekend, the group’s coordinator, Dr Osamudiamen Isokpehi, characterized these attacks as a “calculated effort to mislead the public and blackmail dedicated public servants for personal gain.”
He accused individuals behind the controversy of showing impatience in their aspirations for the AGF’s position.
Isokpehi expressed concern regarding what he referred to as a “sponsored report” targeting the AGF and HCSF, criticising the reliance on anonymous sources in these allegations as an indication of their lack of credibility.
“Those claiming to speak the truth should not hide behind anonymity.
“The article contains serious allegations against the civil service and, by extension, the President. Such misrepresentations cannot go unchallenged,” he said.
He refuted claims that either the AGF or the HCSF acted against the Public Service Rules (PSR), clarifying that the PSR does not require a three-month pre-retirement leave, as some reports suggest.
“The rule states that officers must give a three-month notice before retirement, which includes attending a one-month pre-retirement seminar while the remaining time is for administrative preparations. Pre-retirement leave is not mandatory,” he said.
He cited examples of former officials like Mr. Stephen Oronsaye and Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan who transitioned without taking pre-retirement leave.
The group lauded President Tinubu’s decision to allow Madein to fulfill her tenure, emphasizing that this approach is in line with civil service principles and serves the national interest.
“The President is knowledgeable and adept at navigating the complexities of governance.
“As a two-term governor of Lagos State and an experienced administrator, he has consistently adhered to established protocols,” he said.
Addressing claims of turmoil within the AGF’s office, Isokpehi reassured that operations are proceeding smoothly under Mrs. Madein’s leadership.
“There is no panic or anxiety among staff at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation. Work is progressing seamlessly, with employees performing their duties with enthusiasm,” he affirmed.
The group urged critics to refrain from exploiting civil service rules for personal gain and appealed to Nigerians to reject any attempts to politicize the tenures of public officials.
“Let us focus on enhancing our institutions rather than undermining them with unfounded allegations,” he concluded.
