The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Didi Walson-Jack, confirmed on Monday that the investigation into civil servants still receiving government salaries after relocating abroad is ongoing. This follows President Bola Tinubu’s directive issued five months ago, ordering that civil servants benefiting from the system while abroad refund the money.

Walson-Jack addressed the situation during an event in Abuja to mark her 100 days in office, clarifying that the investigation has not been abandoned. She assured that the government is committed to eliminating such practices, which have come under scrutiny as part of efforts to maintain integrity within the civil service.

“We know the issue has been raised and verifications were carried out,” Walson-Jack stated. “Since then, some civil servants have returned quickly, while others retired honourably. The process continues, and we are scrutinizing the Integrated Personnel and Payroll Information System (IPPIS) to identify those still benefiting from the system despite being abroad.”

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The investigation, which aims to ensure that civil servants are no longer paid while residing overseas, is ongoing. Walson-Jack emphasized that the effort is crucial to maintaining accountability within the federal workforce. She assured that those responsible for allowing such practices would be held accountable, as President Tinubu had also directed.

Walson-Jack also highlighted the collaboration between her office and the Federal Civil Service Commission to tackle other challenges, including job racketeering. She pledged to work alongside the commission to address issues where individuals obtain government positions through fraudulent means. “We will ensure that anyone who has secured a job dishonestly will face sanctions,” she said.

As part of her 100-day review, Walson-Jack expressed her gratitude to President Tinubu for the appointment and acknowledged the support of her staff, particularly the ‘Super Permanent Secretaries,’ who have helped her transition smoothly into her role.