JUST IN: Edugate Controversy: CISLAC Opposes Enitan’s Leadership In Humanitarian Ministry

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has strongly opposed the appointment of Abel Olumuyiwa Enitan, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, to oversee the ministry in the wake of an alleged fraud amounting to N585.2 million. The Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Rafsanjani, expressed dissatisfaction with the decision, arguing that Enitan, being the accounting officer implicated in the scandal, should be suspended and investigated, rather than placed in charge of the ministry…….CONTINUE READING

Rafsanjani, who also serves as the Head of Transparency International in Nigeria, emphasized that ministers typically act based on the recommendations of civil servants, with the Permanent Secretary playing a crucial role. He criticized the appointment of Enitan, asserting that it is unacceptable for someone involved in such a scandal to supervise the ministry. Additionally, Rafsanjani raised concerns about the potential compromise of ongoing investigations by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). He cautioned that this move could undermine public trust and accused the government of planning to cover up the alleged heist and abuse of public trust.

Highlighting the legal framework, Rafsanjani pointed out that the Permanent Secretary, as the accounting officer, should have been suspended along with the minister, as ministers rely on the recommendations of civil servants. He emphasized that there is no evidence suggesting the Permanent Secretary’s innocence, and the lack of objection on his part warrants further investigation.

Expressing serious concern over the promotion of top officers connected to financial and procurement processes within the ministry, Rafsanjani argued that their elevation to sensitive positions could jeopardize the ongoing investigation. He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently reconsider the appointment of the Permanent Secretary and others currently under investigation, urging the suspension of these individuals from sensitive positions until the conclusion of the ongoing scrutiny by anti-corruption agencies.

CISLAC urged the President to prioritize individuals with integrity and a track record free of corruption in future appointments to demonstrate the government’s commitment to good governance. The organization called on civil society, the media, and other well-meaning Nigerians to remain vigilant, rejecting unjustified or secluded appointments to ensure inclusive reforms promoting transparency and accountability in governance.

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