By Ogochukwu Isioma
The Governing Council of the Chartered Institute of Forensics and Certified Fraud Investigators of Nigeria (CIFCFIN) has called on the relevant law enforcement agencies to immediately investigate and prosecute the former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Mr. Uche Nnaji, following damming allegations of certificate forgery and his consequent resignation from office.
The Council, which is the highest organ of the Institute, maintained that it is not enough for Nnji to resign from office but should face the consequences of his actions.
“Pervasive culture of forgery in public office is a direct consequence of a failing system characterized by a lack of consequences, poor deterrent measures, and institutional compromise,” the Council added.
The Council pointed out “systemic failures as the bedrock upon which such egregious acts thrive in the Nigeria’s public service to include: Lack of Consequences and Poor Deterrent Measures in which individuals can commit grave crimes without facing legal punishment; Bad Culture of Rewarding Criminal Behaviour where the system actively rewards similar alleged deception instead of severe punishment as provided by law with individuals nominated, screened, confirmed, and appointed into public offices in the country based on forged credentials.
“Others are: Judicial and Investigative Compromise with the perception of a highly compromised system which in itself a threat and Indifference by Critical Institutions which shows the failure of transparent and accountable processes, rigged systems and compromised institutions, especially those responsible for background checks at all levels during confirmations, creates gaps that fraudsters easily exploit.
“In order to stem this tide and restore integrity to our public service, CIFCFIN’s Governing Council recommends the following immediate actions: Transparent and Accountable Criminal Justice System: Nationwide Independent Forensic Audit to be led by the Institute, to carry out an independent forensic audit of the academic credentials of all civil servants, public office holders and ministerial nominees to ensure professional independence in accordance with global best practices. Given the low level of the moral standards, this is the only way of restoring confidence of public trust in the Nigerian public service,” the Council asserted.
It concluded that Nigeria stands at a crossroads. “We can either continue on the path of impunity, which erodes/harms the very foundations of our society, or we can choose the path of accountability and the rule of law. The prosecution of all offenders is the first step on this new path. Otherwise, shall continue to build in vain.”
