National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN) has exonerated Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) of any wrongdoing in its 2025 staff promotion exercise, declaring that the process followed due process and public service regulations.
Gatekeepers News reports that at a press briefing in Abuja, the Council’s Executive Director, Blessing Akinlosotu, said its independent investigation into petitions submitted by some aggrieved staff and civil society groups found no evidence of bias, favoritism, or breach of the Federal Character Principle.
Akinlosotu said, “Contrary to claims of marginalization and victimization, our independent inquiry revealed that the process was fair, transparent, and merit-driven.”
“While there were minor administrative lapses, no law was violated, and no deliberate attempt was made to discriminate against any staff member.”
NCSCN noted that its fact-finding mission was initiated after receiving complaints about alleged unfair treatment and underrepresentation during the exercise conducted under the leadership of the NCC’s Executive Vice Chairman, Dr. Aminu Maida.
According to the Council, the promotion process adhered strictly to existing institutional frameworks that accounted for federal character, available vacancies, and manpower needs. It added that some eligible candidates could not be promoted solely due to limited openings at certain levels.
Akinlosotu also revealed that the examination panels included representatives from all six geopolitical zones as well as officials of the Federal Character Commission (FCC) to ensure transparency and fairness.
The Council commended the NCC’s Human Capital Department for promptly addressing minor operational challenges and issuing apologies where necessary.
It said, “No human process is flawless. What we observed were normal administrative constraints, not acts of discrimination or bias.”
In its broader assessment, NCSCN applauded Dr. Maida’s leadership for significant progress in accountability, consumer protection, and regulatory innovation.
It also warned against attempts to use civil society and media platforms to fuel internal disputes, describing some of the controversies as the handiwork of internal saboteurs.
Akinlosotu advised, “We urge discontented staff to channel grievances through internal mechanisms rather than resorting to public smear campaigns.”
“Civil society must continue to promote accountability, but it should never be used as a weapon for institutional destabilization.”
The Council further called on NCC management to approach the situation with empathy and maintain an atmosphere of reconciliation and unity within the organization.
