Retired civil servants urge Senate to block discriminatory bill

A coalition of retired civil servants has called on Senate President Godswill Akpabio to intervene and reject a controversial bill that seeks to restrict the appointment of the National Assembly Clerk (CNA) solely to those who have served within the legislative chambers. The Coalition of Patriots (Retired Civil Servants) warned that the proposed legislation is “discriminatory, unjust, and a ticking time bomb” that could have far-reaching consequences for the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC).

In a strongly worded letter addressed to Akpabio, the coalition argued that the bill would set a chaotic and destructive precedent by barring highly qualified and competent staff from advancing within the organisation. They maintained that such a move would not only violate Nigerian labour laws and international best practices but also diminish morale among civil servants and erode public trust in the legislative process.

“This bill is an open violation of Nigerian labour laws, international best practices, and the fundamental principles of justice,” the statement read. “It is an insult to the commitment and service of those employed under clear terms of engagement, who are now being told that their legitimate career aspirations will be permanently blocked by legislative fiat.”

Critics have accused lawmakers of attempting to create an exclusive class within the National Assembly, where political loyalty is prioritised over competence and experience. The coalition fears that, if passed, the bill will transform the NASC into an environment where promotions are dictated by allegiance to lawmakers rather than merit, potentially triggering widespread disillusionment and protest among staff.

The group outlined ten reasons why the bill is unjust, arguing that it contradicts the NASC Act, negates the principle of meritocracy, and sets a dangerous precedent that could encourage other government agencies to adopt similarly exclusionary policies. They emphasised that public service roles must remain open to all qualified candidates and that excluding NASC staff from ascending to the position of Clerk is an unreasonable infringement on their rights.

The retired civil servants have urged the Senate to immediately withdraw the bill and instead focus on enhancing institutional capacity through merit-based promotions. They called on Senate President Akpabio to uphold the principles of fairness and transparency in the National Assembly, insisting that any attempt to block career progression for NASC staff would have damaging repercussions for the commission and the legislature as a whole.