In a recent development, commissioners from the Federal Character Commission (FCC) have leveled serious accusations against the organization’s chairwoman, Farida Dankaka, alleging the “selling of jobs” within federal ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). The allegations came to light during a hearing conducted by the House of Representatives ad hoc committee, which is currently investigating employment racketeering in Abuja.
Among the commissioners who made the allegations were Abdulrasaq Adeoye (Osun), James Dan’iya (Kwara), Abdulwasiu Bawa-Allah (Lagos), Moses Anaughe (Delta), Mamman Alakayi (Nasarawa), and others.
According to the commissioners, Ms. Dankaka is suspected of colluding with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to thwart an investigation into her alleged involvement in job racketeering. Jobseekers reportedly paid exorbitant amounts ranging from N750,000 to N7 million, depending on the desired MDA positions. These funds were allegedly funneled into a central account at Access Bank.
The commissioners further accused the chairwoman of favoritism, claiming that she moved her son from one lucrative agency to another.
In response to the accusations, Ms. Dankaka vehemently denied any wrongdoing. She stated, “When you fight corruption, corruption will fight back,” and emphasized that her intent was to serve her country and not to amass wealth. The chairwoman suggested that the allegations against her were motivated by personal reasons, pointing to certain commissioners who were unhappy with her refusal to participate in corrupt practices.
Ms. Dankaka revealed that prior to her appointment in July 2020, the commissioners were allegedly involved in job-selling activities themselves. She highlighted an incident where the commissioner representing Osun purportedly bought a property and offered job slots as repayment.
The chairwoman defended her stance on the matter, stating that she refused to compromise and remained committed to maintaining integrity within the commission. She asserted that any letters from commissioners without her signature should not be honored by MDAs.
Regarding the involvement of the EFCC, Ms. Dankaka clarified that the agency sought to employ personnel with her approval, and she denied any compromise in the process.
Gagdi Yusuf, the chair of the house committee, assured the public that the legislators would conduct a fair investigation, free from any political influence. He expressed concern over alleged missing documents related to the commission’s employment activities.
As the investigation unfolds, the nation keenly awaits the outcome, hoping for transparency and accountability in matters pertaining to employment in federal institutions.
Source: Peoples Gazette
