By Eunice Orike
Nigeria Women Professional Alliance (NWPA) has thrown its weight behind the Accountant General of the Federation (AGF), Mrs. Oluwatoyin Sakirat Madein, amid controversies surrounding her tenure.
The group’s spokesperson, Mrs. Christine Ezekwe, urged Mrs. Madein to remain steadfast in her duties despite alleged moves to remove her from office before her tenure expires in March 2025.
Mrs. Ezekwe applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for ensuring that Mrs. Madein remains in office until her tenure ends, describing the decision as a demonstration of statesmanship and quality leadership.
She also dismissed media reports suggesting that Mrs. Madein was refusing to proceed on terminal leave, emphasizing that it is optional under the law.
The NWPA spokesperson refuted allegations of victimization against Mr. Shamselden Babatunde Ogunjimi, a Director in the Office of the Accountant General, who was reassigned to a training institute after an initial announcement as Acting AGF was reversed.
“When has routine posting become a crime?” Mrs. Ezekwe asked, adding that Mr. Ogunjimi’s reassignment was a strategic move to contribute to the system and groom civil servants for effective service delivery.
The group urged those aspiring to occupy the AGF position to exercise patience until Mrs. Madein’s tenure ends in three months.
They also emphasized the importance of Mrs. Madein’s role as an ambassador of Nigerian women in leadership and urged her to continue executing her duties passionately, aligning with President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda for Nigerians.
The group also defended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, against what they described as unjustified criticism.
“She acted in bold faith to protect the service and the rules governing it by providing professional advice on the appointment of an Acting Accountant General,”she said.
NWPA issued a stern warning against further malicious attacks on Mrs. Madein in the media, urging detractors to allow her to concentrate on her job, especially as she prepares the office for a smooth transition.
As March 2025 approaches, the group’s message is clear: the focus should remain on service delivery and adherence to due process, ensuring stability and professionalism in the nation’s public service.
