The Federal Government of Nigeria has suspended the Accountant-General of the Federation, Idris Ahmed following his arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC.
Idris was arrested on Monday in connection with diversion of funds and money laundering activities to the tune of N80billion.
The Minister of Finance, Zainab Ahmed in a letter on Wednesday informed Idris of his suspension. The Minister said the suspension is in line with Public Service Rules to give room for “proper and unhindered investigation.”
According to the letter, his suspension is without pay effective May 18, 2022.
The letter also bars Mr. Idris from visiting his office or contacting any official in his office during his suspension except for disciplinary proceedings that might be advised.
The letter read in part: “Following your recent arrest by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) on allegations of diversion of funds and money laundering, I write to convey your suspension from work without pay effective 18th May 2022.”
“This is to allow for proper and unhindered investigation into the serious allegations in line with Public Service Rules 030408.
“During this period, you are not expected to attend to your place of work or contact any official in your office except for any disciplinary hearing that may be advised.
“Also, it is expected that you will strictly comply with any instructions that will be forwarded to you in your current location or your known recorded address as stipulated in the extant rules,” the letter read.
Ifunanya Ikueze is an Engineer, Safety Professional, Writer, Investor, Entrepreneur and Educator.