By Cynthia Abah
The Federal Government is intensifying its investigation into civil servants fraudulently receiving salaries while residing abroad, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, revealed on Monday.
Speaking at an event in Abuja marking her first 100 days in office, Walson-Jack reassured Nigerians that the probe remains active, leveraging the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) to identify offenders.
She debunked claims of inaction and emphasized the government’s determination to eliminate payroll fraud.
“You are asking about civil servants who may have ‘Japa’. Verifications have been carried out, and some individuals have returned, while others opted for retirement.
The investigation continues until no one unlawfully receives salaries while living abroad,” she stated.
The crackdown stems from President Bola Tinubu’s directive five months ago, mandating the recovery of funds from erring civil servants and holding complicit supervisors accountable.
Reflecting on her tenure, Walson-Jack expressed gratitude to President Tinubu and her team, particularly the ‘Super Permanent Secretaries,’ for their support.
She highlighted ongoing efforts to combat job racketeering, promising sanctions for anyone found to have fraudulently secured employment in the civil service.
The Head of Service reiterated her commitment to fostering accountability, transparency, and efficiency in Nigeria’s civil service reforms.