The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC’s Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, has applauded the immense role played by staff of the commission in the success of the 2015 general elections, stressing that they have salvaged INEC’s image by being honest and decent.
Jega, who made this known in Abuja yesterday, pointed out that majority of the staff, who conducted the 2007 general elections and were accused of various complicities, were the same staff used to record the victory in the conduct of the general elections.
Explaining that what made them different was the enabling environment, which the present leadership provided, he said, “Majority of INEC staff are honest people, decent people and people doing their best for their country”.
As regards the welfare of staff, the INEC boss regretted that the major expectation or aspiration of the staff of the commission has not been satisfied, but insisted that the present commission has been committed to improving the welfare of staff.
His words, “We all know that the issue of a new salary structure in a country like Nigeria is not only too politicized, but it is an issue that successive governments handle like a hot potato. We tried our best as diplomatically as possible to explore ways and means of introducing a new salary structure. I regret that we have not been able to deliver on that major promise.”
Jega assured that within the remaining 30 days left for the commission, all outstanding issues of promotion will be resolved, even as he averred that all promotions since he assumed office were done in compliance with the laws and provisions of the Federal Character Commission.
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