Former staff members of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) express dismay over abrupt termination, alleging mistreatment and injustice by the management.
Claiming non-payment of entitlements before dismissal, they argue that such action violates the bank’s human resource policies.
In a statement issued in Jos, Plateau State, Paul Dekete, North Central Coordinator of the Conference of Autochthonous Ethnic Communities Development Association Youth Wing, demands immediate reinstatement of the sacked workers.
The purge, according to the statement, affected not only high-level executives but also seasoned professionals essential to departmental operations, including Deputy Directors and Assistant Directors.
Dekete highlights instances where critical projects, such as securing international information security certifications, were overseen by dismissed staff, questioning the rationale behind their termination.
The mass dismissal, allegedly executed without board approval, raises concerns about transparency and adherence to due process.
Furthermore, the lack of clear criteria for the sackings deviates from the bank’s usual practice of transparent communication during downsizing.
Related NewsHeritage Bank’s License Revoked by CBN Due to Financial IssuesÂ
CBN Raises Interest Rate to 26.25% Amidst Economic HardshipÂ
Former CBN Governor Emefiele Arraigned by EFCC Over Alleged Unapproved Naira Redesign and Printing
The human toll of this action is significant, with employees, some with decades of service, left without proper compensation and facing financial distress.
Ethnic bias allegations emerge, with certain regions disproportionately affected, prompting questions about the bank’s commitment to national unity.
The dismissal of the entire Economic Intelligence Unit (EIU), tasked with identifying and monitoring illegal financial activities, raises concerns about the bank’s capacity to combat financial crimes.
Dekete notes the disproportionate impact on the Middle Belt region, suggesting a deliberate attempt to weaken certain areas.
Calls for a review of termination decisions to ensure compliance with HR policies and public service rules are made, with appeals to regional governors to intervene and address the situation.
