A power struggle has erupted within the Nigerian civil service, stemming from President Bola Tinubu’s decision to appoint Mr. Babatunde Ogunjimi as the acting Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF). The controversy centers on the timing of the appointment, with the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF) arguing that the appointment is premature and violates public service rules. The HCSF contends that the current AGF, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Madein, must complete her retirement process, including a mandatory three-month pre-retirement period, before a successor can be appointed. This has created a standoff, with President Tinubu’s decision effectively stalled, leaving the civil service in a state of uncertainty.
At the heart of the dispute is the interpretation of Section 120243 of the Federal Government Public Service Rules. This section mandates a three-month notice period for retiring civil servants, encompassing a one-month pre-retirement workshop and two months for transitioning duties and documentation. The HCSF interprets this as requiring Mrs. Madein to remain in active service until the completion of this period, effectively blocking Mr. Ogunjimi’s assumption of the acting AGF role. Sources close to the presidency, however, argue that the rules do not necessitate the outgoing AGF’s continued active service during the pre-retirement period, and that President Tinubu’s appointment of Mr. Ogunjimi is therefore valid. They point to precedents where senior officials, including a former Head of Service, vacated their positions after giving notice, without remaining in active service for the full three months.
The situation is further complicated by allegations that the HCSF’s advice to the President is motivated by opposition to Mr. Ogunjimi’s selection, rather than a strict adherence to the rules. Sources suggest that certain factions within the civil service are unhappy with the President’s choice and are leveraging the rules to obstruct the appointment. This raises concerns about potential power plays and undue influence within the civil service, undermining the President’s authority and potentially impeding the smooth functioning of government. The controversy highlights a broader issue of a perceived “sit-tight syndrome” within the civil service, where officials allegedly resist commencing pre-retirement leave as required, potentially clinging to power beyond their designated tenure.
The appointment of Mr. Ogunjimi, announced on December 10, 2024, was based on his extensive qualifications and over 30 years of experience in financial management. He is considered the most senior director in the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, having previously served as Director of Funds and Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The President’s intention was to ensure a seamless transition in the treasury’s administration and consolidate ongoing reforms. However, the HCSF’s intervention has thrown this transition into disarray, creating tension and uncertainty.
The unfolding events raise questions about the clarity and consistent application of public service rules. While the HCSF maintains that the President’s action violates established procedures, others argue that the rules are being selectively interpreted to serve specific agendas. This ambiguity underscores the need for a thorough review and clarification of the rules to prevent future conflicts and ensure smooth transitions of power. The current situation threatens to undermine the President’s authority and erode public trust in the integrity and impartiality of the civil service.
This conflict highlights the importance of a clear delineation of authority and responsibilities within the government. The President’s power to appoint key officials should be respected, while the civil service should operate within established rules and regulations, free from undue influence and political maneuvering. The controversy surrounding the acting AGF appointment necessitates a swift resolution to restore stability and ensure the efficient functioning of the government’s financial operations. Failure to address this issue decisively could set a dangerous precedent, potentially weakening the President’s ability to govern effectively and further politicizing the civil service. The need for transparency and adherence to due process is paramount to maintain public confidence in the government’s ability to manage public resources responsibly and effectively.
