A controversy surrounding the tenure of the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, has drawn sharp reactions, with a civil society organisation stepping in to defend her and the Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack.
The Pro-Impact Initiative, a prominent advocacy group, has supported Madein’s decision to remain in office despite allegations that she violated public service rules by failing to take terminal leave ahead of her retirement in March 2025.
Madein’s situation gained attention after a directive from Walson-Jack extended her tenure until March 7, 2025, allowing her to complete her duties before a successor is appointed. Critics argued that she should have gone on a mandatory three-month pre-retirement leave, sparking debates about compliance with Public Service Rules (PSR).
Speaking in Abuja over the weekend, the Coordinator of Pro-Impact Initiative, Osamudiamen Isokpehi, threw his weight behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to allow Madein to serve out her term.
“This is a commendable decision by President Tinubu,” Isokpehi stated. “The President is an experienced leader who understands the complexities of governance. His decision aligns with established civil service protocols and prioritises national interest.”
He noted Tinubu’s track record as a two-term governor of Lagos State, describing him as a seasoned administrator with a history of following due process.
At the heart of the issue is whether public servants are mandated to take a three-month pre-retirement leave. The Pro-Impact Initiative argued that the PSR does not make this leave compulsory but requires officers to provide a three-month notice before retirement.
“Officers are expected to attend a one-month pre-retirement seminar and use the remaining time for administrative preparations,” Isokpehi explained. “However, there is no obligation to take pre-retirement leave.”
Citing precedents, he pointed to former Head of Service Stephen Oronsaye and the current Head of Service, Folasade Yemi-Esan, who both transitioned without taking such leave.
Despite allegations of unrest at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), Isokpehi assured that operations have continued seamlessly under Madein’s leadership.
“There is no panic or anxiety among the staff,” he said. “Work is progressing efficiently, and employees remain dedicated to their responsibilities.”
The group dismissed claims that the extended tenure had caused disruptions, urging critics to avoid politicising the tenure of public officials.
“Our focus should be on strengthening institutions, not undermining them with baseless accusations,” Isokpehi stated.
The Pro-Impact Initiative accused unnamed critics of using the situation to push personal agendas. They warned against attempts to misinterpret civil service rules for political purposes.
Isokpehi called on Nigerians to prioritise institutional integrity over individual interests, saying, “We must not allow baseless accusations to erode trust in our public institutions.”
The group’s defence of Madein comes amidst broader concerns about governance and adherence to procedures in Nigeria’s public service.
This is not the first time terminal leave has sparked debates in Nigeria’s civil service. In recent years, similar controversies have arisen, with critics accusing senior officials of flouting rules to extend their time in office.
The Public Service Rules (PSR) are often cited in such disputes, with interpretations varying depending on the context. While some argue for strict compliance, others advocate flexibility to ensure smooth transitions and avoid leadership vacuums.
Observers say the ongoing debate highlights the need for clearer guidelines to prevent future misunderstandings.
