Coalition Calls for Clarity on Acting AGF Appointment

Urges Adherence to Civil Service Procedures and Transparency

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

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

The groups have called for transparency in the appointment process and strict adherence to civil service rules. They expressed concerns about the timing of the December 10, 2024 decision, which they argue may not align with established protocols.

In a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Nwodo Chidiebere, Esq., the convener of the coalition, questioned the premature removal of the incumbent AGF, Dr. Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, whose tenure is set to end in March 2025. Dr. Madein has been recognized for her efforts in improving fiscal discipline and accountability within the public sector.

“We are calling for greater transparency to ensure that the right processes were followed in this appointment,” Chidiebere stated. “It is important that any decision made reflects President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to financial reforms and accountability.”

The coalition also addressed statements made by Presidential Spokesman Bayo Onanuga, who described Ogunjimi as the most senior director in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF). The group pointed out that Ogunjimi’s last official posting was with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, not the OAGF, raising questions about the procedural basis for his appointment.

“We seek clarification on how Mr. Ogunjimi assumed the role of Director of Funds in the OAGF, and we request any official documentation that supports this appointment,” Chidiebere added.

The coalition emphasized that civil service guidelines stipulate that the most senior director in the OAGF should assume the position of Acting AGF in the absence of a substantive holder. They suggested that Danladi Comfort Zakowi, Director of Finance, or Luka Joshua, Director of the Consolidated Accounts Department, would have been the appropriate candidates for the role.

The group also expressed concern over the exclusion of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Watson-Jack, from the decision-making process, noting that she was only informed of the appointment after it was publicly announced. They stressed that adherence to proper procedure is vital to maintaining the integrity of the civil service.

“The lack of clarity around this appointment risks undermining the effective functioning of critical financial processes, including the upcoming Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) meeting,” Chidiebere remarked.

The coalition called on President Tinubu to ensure that the appointment process follows established civil service procedures and to take corrective action if necessary. They urged the President to either reinstate Dr. Madein or appoint a legitimate acting AGF through the proper channels.

“Transparency and accountability are essential to the effective management of Nigeria’s financial systems,” the coalition concluded. “We urge President Tinubu to act promptly to preserve the integrity of our institutions.”