By Luminous Jannamike

ABUJA – The Advocates for Social Justice for All (ASJA) have expressed concerns over the appointment of Dr. Shamseldeen Babatunde Ogunjimi as Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF), warning that questions surrounding his qualifications and professional background could affect Nigeria’s financial stability.

The advocacy group raised concerns about inconsistencies in Ogunjimi’s academic and professional records, urging that a thorough review of his credentials be conducted.

In a letter to the Head of Service, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, the ASJA highlighted concerns about Ogunjimi’s claim of obtaining a Master’s degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Lagos during the same period as his Bachelor’s degree.

They also questioned the practical application of his professional certifications in his public service career.

The group further pointed to his previous roles, including his tenure as Director of Funds at the Office of the Accountant-General and Director of Finance and Accounts at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

They emphasized the importance of ensuring that individuals appointed to critical positions in government possess the highest standards of competence and integrity.

The letter, signed by Dauda Yakubu, Executive Director of the ASJA, called on the Head of Service to reconsider Ogunjimi’s appointment and ensure that the selection process for the AGF is transparent and merit-based, based on proven qualifications and professional experience.

The ASJA stressed the importance of maintaining public trust in the country’s financial management system, urging that the appointment process be handled with the utmost scrutiny and transparency to safeguard Nigeria’s economic stability.

“We believe that the integrity of Nigeria’s financial management system is too important to be compromised by an individual whose competence, integrity, and qualifications are in question.

“We implore your office to act swiftly to guarantee that only the most capable, moral, and qualified applicants are taken into consideration for this position.

“By doing these things, you will not only protect the AG-F office’s reputation but also strengthen public confidence in the government’s dedication to accountability and sound governance,” the letter read in part.