Japa: Pres. Tinubu orders repayment of salaries earned by absentee civil servants

President Bola Tinubu has ordered civil servants who are still on the Federal Government payroll but have relocated abroad to return their salaries.

Tinubu also ordered disciplinary action against their supervisors and department heads for their complicity in facilitating the misconduct.

The President gave the directive on Saturday during the award ceremony hosted by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, marking 2024 Civil Service Week.

The event also recognized and honoured exceptional civil servants from key ministries for their outstanding contributions.

Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, Tinubu expressed disappointment and frustration with the civil servants who fraudulently receive salaries while residing abroad, calling them “ghost workers”.

He said: “During my recent visit to South Africa, I kept abreast of the week’s activities.

“I was particularly struck by the revelations the Head of the Civil Service shared regarding employees who had relocated abroad while drawing salaries without formally resigning.

“It is heartening to hear that measures have been taken to address this issue, but we must ensure those responsible are held accountable and restitution is made.

“The culprits must be made to refund the money they have fraudulently collected.
Their supervisors and department heads must also be punished for aiding and abetting the fraud under their watch.”

Tinubu stated that his administration is determined to take stern action against errant civil servants, ensuring their punishment and full reimbursement of misappropriated funds to the government treasury.

He also acknowledged the prevailing challenges within the civil service sector, reiterating his unwavering commitment to drive reforms and foster optimal performance.

He said: “Our administration acknowledges the challenges the civil service is facing. I want to assure you that we are committed to ensuring the welfare and development of all civil servants to deliver optimal performance for the growth of our nation.

“Over the past year, I have provided all the necessary support to the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation to ensure the continued stability of the civil service.

“I also supported the office in implementing far-reaching policies and reforms capable of improving efficiency and service delivery.”