Code of Conduct Bureau Warns Civil Servants Against Engaging In Private Business During Official Hours

The Code of Conduct Bureau has issued a stern warning that engaging in private business activities during official hours is a punishable offense under the law.

Suleiman Usman, the State Director of the FCT CCB, conveyed this message during a one-day enlightenment campaign held in Abuja on Thursday.

Usman emphasized that the bureau will take decisive action against any civil servant who is reported, investigated, and found guilty of using official working hours for personal business pursuits. He also cautioned employees of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) to strictly adhere to the prescribed code of conduct governing public service, highlighting that failure to comply will result in sanctions.

The campaign aimed to enhance awareness among FCT Administration civil servants about the significance of asset declaration and the imperative of conforming to the code of conduct for public officers. Usman reiterated that the Bureau possesses an investigatory committee tasked with taking appropriate measures, and he stressed that civil servants should refrain from direct involvement in private business ventures if they intend to conduct such activities.

Usman urged workers to uphold transparency and accountability by promptly and accurately declaring their assets. He underscored that government offices are held in trust on behalf of citizens, and the proper conduct of public servants is paramount to maintaining this trust.

Dr. Jummai Ahmadu, the Acting Director of Reform Coordination and Service Improvement at the FCTA, noted that the enlightenment campaign is part of the bureau’s nationwide routine efforts to refresh the minds of civil servants about the requirement for asset declaration.