The Code of Conduct Bureau (CCB) has clarified the strict rules governing public servants in Nigeria, framing public office as a “sacred trust” that demands uncompromised commitment and integrity. CCB Chairman Dr. Abubakar Bello explained that these rules are essential legal instruments designed to eliminate conflicts of interest and curb corruption within the system.
Prohibitions for Integrity and Focus
Dr. Bello provided the foundational reasoning for two of the most critical prohibitions:
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Forbidding Private Business: Public servants are strictly forbidden from combining government work with private business activities.
“When a civil servant runs a business alongside official duties, questions naturally arise about commitment and integrity. Are you spending your time doing your work? Or are you spending your time conducting private business?”
The rule extends to being a company director, operating a business account, or even being a signatory to such an account—all of which clearly signal a breach of the Code.
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Banning Foreign Accounts: Public servants are prohibited from operating foreign bank accounts while in office. This rule is a direct anti-corruption measure, instituted because, as the Chairman noted, “We have seen so many cases of public servants stashing money away” abroad. The accounts must be closed and remain unused until the official leaves public service.
Cracking Down on Corruption Tactics
The CCB is also addressing increasingly sophisticated methods used to bypass anti-corruption rules:
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Misuse of Gifts and Loans: Bello warned that gifts from government contractors are strictly prohibited. Furthermore, the CCB is concerned about the misuse of loans as a cover for bribery, restricting certain public servants to borrowing only from verified, recognized financial institutions.
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Use of Nominees: Officials are being warned about the use of agents, including spouses, children, relatives, and close friends, as nominees to conceal illicit acts. The official remains culpable if they are established as the ultimate beneficiary of the illegal transaction.
Post-Service Restrictions
Finally, the CCB highlighted restrictions that apply even after high-level public servants leave office. Certain categories—including the President, Vice President, Governors, Justices, and Judges—are barred from working for any foreign government or organization. This is to safeguard vital information they hold, ensuring that their future employment does not compromise the security and national interests of Nigeria
