Civil servants in Nigeria are opposing the implementation of a new tenure system introduced by the Head of Service of the Federation (HoSF). The rule, known as Rule 021210, mandates the compulsory retirement of permanent secretaries and directors who have served for eight years in the civil service.
While the Head of Service instructed the implementation of this rule in July 2023, a wide spectrum of civil service workers claims that neither former President Muhammadu Buhari nor the Federal Executive Council (FEC) approved such a policy. They argue that there is no official circular supporting the new tenure policy.
Workers in the medical profession have embarked on a week-long warning strike in protest of this policy, which they consider obnoxious and unilateral. Civil servants affected by the policy have drafted petitions to the Head of Service, requesting a review of the policy.
Investigations reveal that the revised Public Service Rules (PSR), which include the tenure policy, were approved by the federal government. However, there is no record of specific approval for the tenure policy in the documents related to the PSR.
The controversy arises from a lack of clarity regarding whether the revised PSR encompassed the tenure policy or if it was introduced separately without appropriate approval.
The tenure policy has stirred confusion and dissatisfaction among civil service workers, who are now seeking a resolution and clarification from the government.
The director of Information in the office of the Head of Service of the Federation affirmed that the revised rules, including the tenure provision, were approved by former President Muhammadu Buhari. However, some civil servants remain unconvinced, citing a lack of transparency and clarity surrounding the policy’s approval.
The issue highlights the need for transparency and clear communication in government policies and regulations, particularly when they impact civil servants’ careers and working conditions. Civil servants are seeking a fair and just resolution to the matter to ensure their rights and job security.
