KEY POINTS
- Labour Minister apologizes for missing CBN retrenchment inquiry.
- National Assembly investigates proposed layoffs affecting over 1,000 staff.
- Committee vows sanctions for unresponsive government officials.
The Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, issued a public apology for failing to appear before the National Assembly regarding the proposed retrenchment of over 1,000 Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) staff.
Speaking to journalists in Abuja, Onyejeocha assured lawmakers of her ministry’s willingness to cooperate fully and provide answers to their inquiries.
“I apologise on behalf of the Ministry and assure them that we will reach out to them. Before the budget is finalized, we will address every concern,” Onyejeocha stated.
Her absence, along with that of Labour Minister Muhammadu Dingyadi and CBN Governor Yemi Cardoso, drew criticism from the Ad-hoc Committee handling the investigation.
National Assembly investigates mass retrenchment claims
The National Assembly has begun its inquiry into the reported plans to retrench over 1,000 CBN employees.
Moreover, the investigation comes amid media reports suggesting a large-scale downsizing at the apex bank.
Bello Kumo, the Chairman of the Ad-hoc Committee and Majority Chief Whip, assured stakeholders of a fair hearing during the investigation.
However, Kumo expressed disappointment at the absence of key government officials summoned to provide clarity on the situation.
“We will not hesitate to impose sanctions on officials who fail to honor our invitations,” Kumo warned.
Ministry pledges to fulfill constitutional mandate
Onyejeocha emphasized the constitutional importance of the National Assembly’s mandate and assured Nigerians that the Ministry of Labour and Employment would fully cooperate.
“It’s our duty to ensure this mandate is fulfilled. I was embarrassed when I saw headlines suggesting our lack of commitment,” she said.
According to Punch, Onyejeocha also promised to reschedule the meeting with the Assembly and provide necessary answers to all queries before the budget’s completion.
