Abuja: Civil servants are prohibited from engaging in private business activities and operating foreign accounts, according to the Chairman of the Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB), Dr. Abdullahi Bello. In an interview with News Agency of Nigeria, Bello emphasized that public service is a sacred trust that requires undivided commitment and integrity.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Bello explained that civil servants running businesses alongside their official duties could lead to questions about their dedication to their government roles. He highlighted that involvement as a director or signatory in business accounts constitutes a breach of the code of conduct.
Bello further elaborated on the prohibition of public servants from maintaining foreign bank accounts. He cited instances where public servants embezzled money and transferred it abroad, noting that such actions necessitate the closure of foreign accounts during public service tenure.
Additionally, Bello raised concerns about the practice of gift-giving, emphasizing that gifts from government contractors are strictly forbidden. He also mentioned that high-ranking officials, such as the president, vice president, governors, justices, and judges, are restricted from working for foreign governments after their service due to potential security risks.
The CCB Chairman warned about the misuse of loans as a cover for bribery, stating that public servants are limited to borrowing from recognized financial institutions. He also addressed the rise of using agents and nominees to bypass anti-corruption regulations, stressing that officials remain accountable if they benefit from illicit acts.
Moreover, Bello pointed out that public servants are barred from joining organizations that conflict with the integrity of public office. He mentioned that membership in secret cults or groups that undermine public service dignity is prohibited.
To address these breaches, the CCB Chairman revealed that the bureau has a designated department for sensitization, although it faces financial constraints. Bello urged Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to conduct sensitization programs for their staff and announced partnerships with state head services to educate workers.