[Nigeria] SGF blames societal poverty on govt officials

from The Tide

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Chief Ufot Ekaette, has said that the looting of public resources by officials left Nigerians in poverty and misery.

Ekaette stated this Tuesday in Abuja at a two-day retreat for heads of government parastatals, agencies and commission. He noted that the issue of legitimate utilization of public resources were crucial since the inception of the present administration.

“The stealing and looting of public resources by those in charge of affairs had left a large proportion of our populace in poverty and misery.

“Most Nigerians appointed to positions of authority saw it as their chance to make it,” he said.

According to him, a cardinal objective of the new orientation is the fight against corruption, a destructive malaise that had eaten deep into our social and economic fabric.

Ekaette assured that government was committed to motivate and galvanise the public service in ensuring good governance and sustainable development.

“In this regard, each parastatal agency and department has its role to play in the overall efforts of government at promoting social and economic growth in the country.

Earlier, the EFCC chairman noted that the participants had a stake in ensuring that due process was adhered to in the affairs of their organisations.

“Perhaps, I should also let you know recent experiences from some of the cases the EFCC has handled.

“It indicate that chief executives of these organizations need to be reminded of their responsibilities as well as obligations in ensuring transparency and accountability.

“Malfeasance constitutes a serious impediment to the effective functioning of institutions as well as credibility of government,” he said.