The Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced the commencement of a comprehensive investigation into allegations concerning salary deductions and delays in the payment of promotion arrears for personnel within agencies governed by the Interior Ministry. These issues are reportedly linked to the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS).
On Sunday, a statement issued by Ahmed Ja’afaru, the Secretary to the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB), called on personnel to remain calm while the government conducts its investigation into these serious allegations.
The CDCFIB has acknowledged receiving complaints from officers of the paramilitary services under its oversight. These complaints were published online, highlighting concerns about salary deductions made by IPPIS and the delays in processing promotion arrears.
In light of these complaints, the Honourable Minister and Chairman of the Board, Hon. (Dr.) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has directed that an immediate and thorough investigation be undertaken by the Board. He also urged the officers of the paramilitary services to maintain their composure during this process.
The Board has reassured its dedicated officers of its commitment to achieving a prompt and favorable resolution to these concerns, as expressed in part of the official statement. This assurance aims to alleviate any anxiety among personnel regarding the ongoing situation.
According to a report by Daily Trust, some personnel from paramilitary agencies under the Ministry of Interior are mobilizing for a nationwide protest against the alleged salary deductions imposed by IPPIS. This indicates a growing frustration among the affected officers.
The personnel involved include members of the Nigerian Correctional Service (NCoS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), and Federal Fire Service (FFS). They have collectively raised concerns about the delays in receiving their promotion arrears.
A social media post from some personnel on Friday expressed their feelings of oppression and victimization by IPPIS. They claimed that their financial rights, including promotion arrears and other entitlements approved by the federal government, have not been honored, leading to significant underpayment in the current month.
Read also: Deductions from IPPIS: Civil Defence and NCoS staff prepare for demonstration
In response to these allegations, Bawa Mokwa, a spokesperson for the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, addressed our correspondent. He stated that the promotion arrears highlighted by the paramilitary staff are being disbursed in installments and that these payments are made in batches based on the availability of funds.
Mokwa emphasized that the situation is not unique to the paramilitary personnel, suggesting that similar issues may be affecting other sectors as well. This response aims to clarify the government’s position on the matter and provide some context for the ongoing concerns.
