The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has called on all relevant stakeholders to collaborate fully with the House as it investigates the alleged forced retirement of over 1,000 staff members of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). This came as the ad hoc committee on the termination and dismissal of CBN employees commenced a hearing in Abuja on Friday.
Speaking at the opening session, Rep. Abbas, represented by Deputy Speaker Rep. Benjamin Kalu, emphasized the importance of transparency, fairness, and accountability in handling the matter, particularly given the scale of the layoffs and the subsequent N50 billion severance package. He urged the Federal Ministry of Labour, Employment and Productivity, the Federal Character Commission, and CBN to ensure full cooperation with the investigation, which aims to clarify the rationale behind the staff layoffs and the process leading to the severance payment.
Abbas stressed that the investigation went beyond procedural matters. It was driven by the collective responsibility of upholding integrity within government institutions and ensuring that decisions affecting citizens are made with fairness and due diligence. “The impacts of such a significant workforce reduction on individuals, their families, and the economy cannot be ignored,” he noted.
A key area of focus for the committee, Abbas explained, would be the determination of the N50 billion severance package and the process through which it was calculated. He underscored the importance of transparency in maintaining public trust and ensuring that government agencies are held accountable.
However, Abbas expressed disappointment over the absence of CBN representatives at the hearing, despite invitations being extended. “It is concerning that no representative from the CBN is present to engage with the committee on this critical matter. Their cooperation is vital for uncovering the facts and restoring public confidence in the integrity of government institutions,” he stated.
The Speaker reiterated that the committee would operate within the provisions of Sections 88 and 89 of the Nigerian Constitution, calling for all stakeholders to comply with these legal requirements to enable the committee to carry out its mandate effectively.
Rep. Abbas concluded with the hope that the investigation would provide clarity and resolution by the end of the year, ensuring that the process aligns with the principles of fairness, equity, and the rule of law.
In his remarks, Rep. Bello Kumo, Chairman of the ad hoc committee, assured that the committee would approach the investigation with diligence, transparency, and fairness. He reiterated that the committee’s primary responsibility was to serve as a neutral body, representing the interests of the affected workers while ensuring that no party, particularly CBN staff, was unjustly treated.
Rep. Kumo also expressed frustration over the continued absence of CBN officials, warning that the committee would not hesitate to invoke legal measures against any stakeholders who fail to attend the hearings. He vowed that the committee would leave no stone unturned in its quest for the truth.
As the investigation unfolds, all eyes will be on the House of Representatives to ensure that justice is served and that the actions surrounding the CBN staff dismissals are thoroughly examined.
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