President Bola Tinubu has been directed to investigate the books of recently fired or retired agency heads and prosecute any found guilty.
The complaint was levelled against President Tinubu by 50 civil society organisations working under the aegis of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria.
COCSON National President Obiora Bartholomew, North Central Vice President Ada Onoja, and six others said in a statement yesterday that they should investigate former Comptroller General of Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), Dr Vincent Isegbe, for suspected malfeasance.
Bartholomew said: “The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria (COCSON), write to express our deep concern regarding the actions of Dr. Vincent Isegbe, the Director General of the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS). We believe that he has committed gross misconduct.
“As you are aware, the NAQS is a government agency under the supervision of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.
“Its primary duties and functions include inspecting and carrying out tests on animal and plant products entering or leaving the country to ensure their safety, facilitating international trade in agricultural products, and protecting public health.
“Mr President Sir, we implore you to take immediate action to address the corruption and abuse of power within the NAQS.
“By addressing these issues, the Nigerian government under your leadership will not only eradicate corruption within the NAQS but also harness the potential revenue generation opportunities associated with a regulated and properly governed donkey trade.
“This will undoubtedly contribute to job creation, reduce unemployment, and mitigate the current security threats plaguing our great nation.”