The Arewa Youths Advocate for Peace and Unity Initiative has refuted the claim regarding alleged ethnic bias in the promotions at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS).
In a statement on Thursday, the National President, Sani Danaudi Mohammed, said that independent investigation showed no favoritism in the recent internal exercise.
“Our findings, including information from credible sources like PRNigeria Factcheck, indicated that the initial examination was canceled due to irregularities,” Mohammed said.
“That assessment, held on August 20, 2024, was for officers moving from the rank of Superintendent of Customs (SC) to Chief Superintendent of Customs (CSC).
“After the cancellation, the rescheduled examination was eventually conducted on November 8, 2024, in Abuja and Lagos, with improved oversight measures.
“Of the 642 officers elevated from Superintendent rank to Chief Superintendent rank, 374 were from the north, while 268 were from the south.
“Also, of the 16 officers elevated for exceptional performance, 9 were from the north, including two from Kano, who got double promotions for outstanding work.
“In December 2024, 1,419 junior officers were elevated, after which a meeting chaired by the Minister of Finance confirmed the promotion of 4,291 senior officers.
“We commend the Comptroller General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for upholding the principle of merit and ensuring an equitable promotion process.
“We advise the public to exercise caution and verify information before accepting it as factual. Spreading misinformation can have detrimental consequences,” the group added.(Guardian)
