The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) has issued a stern warning to employees of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to strictly adhere to the established code of conduct for public service. Failure to comply with this directive, particularly regarding the declaration of assets, will result in severe sanctions.
Suleiman Usman, the State Director of the FCT CCB, highlighted the little-known fact that engaging in private business during official working hours is a punishable offense under the law. He conveyed this warning during a one-day enlightenment campaign held in Abuja on Thursday.
Addressing the civil servants present, Usman emphasized the significance of asset declaration and underscored the need for complete compliance. He also took the opportunity to clarify the code of conduct expected from public officers, shedding light on their responsibilities and limitations.
Usman elaborated on the CCB’s investigative committee, which is responsible for ensuring adherence to these guidelines. He specifically cautioned civil servants against directly managing private businesses if they wished to engage in such activities. He urged them to declare their assets accurately and promptly, citing transparency and accountability as crucial factors. Usman reminded the audience that government offices are held in trust for the citizens and therefore require the highest level of integrity.
Lamenting the prevailing ignorance among public servants regarding relevant information and practices, Usman noted that this lack of awareness often leads to unwitting endorsement of illegal activities within the system. He condemned the practice of using official office hours for private business endeavors, cautioning that the CCB would take appropriate measures against any civil servant found guilty of this offense following investigation by the bureau’s committee.
Dr. Jummai Ahmadu, the acting Director of Reform Coordination and Service Improvement at FCTA, also spoke at the event. She emphasized that the enlightenment campaign was part of the bureau’s routine nationwide activities aimed at reminding civil servants about the importance of proper asset declaration.
As the campaign concluded, it was evident that the Code of Conduct Bureau’s efforts were directed towards fostering greater accountability and professionalism among civil servants in the Federal Capital Territory Administration. The message was clear: strict adherence to the code of conduct, including timely asset declaration and responsible use of official hours, is essential for maintaining the integrity of public service and upholding citizens’ trust.
