Pro-Impact Initiative defends AGF, HCSF against “malicious attacks”

A civil society group, Pro-Impact Initiative, has condemned alleged attempts to malign 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, following the decision by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to allow the AGF to complete her tenure before appointing a successor.
Addressing journalists in Abuja over the weekend, the group’s Coordinator, Dr. Osamudiamen Isokpehi, described the attacks as a “calculated attempt to mislead the public and blackmail patriotic public servants for selfish interests.”
He accused those fueling the controversy of being impatient in their ambition to occupy the AGF’s office.
Dr. Isokpehi expressed concern over what he termed a “sponsored report” aimed at discrediting the AGF and HCSF. He criticized the use of anonymous sources in such reports, calling it an indication of their lack of credibility.
“Those who claim to speak the truth should not hide behind anonymity.
“The article is filled with grave allegations against the civil service and by extension, the President. Such distortions cannot go unchallenged”, he stressed.
Isokpehi debunked claims that the AGF or the HCSF acted against the Public Service Rules (PSR). He clarified that the PSR does not mandate a three-month pre-retirement leave, as suggested in the controversial reports.
He explains: “The rule states that officers should give a three-month notice before retirement, during which they attend a one-month pre-retirement seminar and use the remaining time for administrative preparations.
“It is not mandatory for officers to proceed on pre-retirement leave.”
He cited past examples, including former Head of Service Mr. Stephen Oronsaye, who did not take pre-retirement leave, and Dr. Folasade Yemi-Esan, who handed over without such leave.
The group praised President Tinubu’s decision to allow AGF Madein to complete her tenure, emphasizing that it aligns with civil service protocols and national interest.
“The President is well-informed and experienced in navigating governance complexities,” Isokpehi stated. “As a two-term governor of Lagos State and seasoned administrator, he has demonstrated adherence to established protocols.”
Contrary to claims of unrest in the AGF’s office, Isokpehi noted that operations continue 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 carrying out their duties joyfully,” he assured.
The group called on detractors to desist from exploiting civil service rules to further their personal ambitions, urging Nigerians to reject attempts to politicize the tenure of public officers.
“Let us focus on strengthening our institutions rather than undermining them with baseless attacks,” Isokpehi concluded.