Kaduna, Oct. 16, 2024 (TheGavel) — The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has categorically dismissed allegations that certain staff members were unfairly excluded from the promotion list due to their involvement in a protest held in April. In a statement released on Tuesday, Deputy Director of Information and Media, Maj. Haruna Sani, described these claims as misleading and urged the public to disregard them.
Sani stated, “The Management of DICON has taken note of the unfounded allegations published against the noble image of the corporation by an online media outlet on Oct 14. These allegations alleged that DICON leadership directed the exclusion of certain DICON staff members from the 2024 promotion list due to their participation in a staff protest held in April.”
He emphasized the importance of addressing what he termed misinformation that could undermine DICON’s integrity and Nigeria’s efforts to rebuild its military industrial complex. “Firstly, it is essential to state that DICON is a critical national asset that operates in accordance with the extant Public Service Regulations,” he added.
According to Sani, the processes for discipline and promotion at DICON are governed by standing committees made up of civilians, with no representation from the Armed Forces of Nigeria. The management’s role is primarily to approve the recommendations made by these committees based on objective assessments.
Clarifying further, Sani said, “It is important to clarify that enrollment in the Integrated Personnel Payroll System (IPPS) falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, not DICON. The federal government operates both the IPPIS and GIFMIS systems for the payment of civil servants’ allowances across the entire country. The current DG did not invent these existing systems upon assuming office, but has ensured that allowances due to DICON staff are paid. Thus, any incessant assertions that staff members have not been enrolled into the IPPS reflect a fundamental misunderstanding of the system’s operations and responsibilities.”
Addressing allegations of tribalism against the DG, Sani remarked, “It is very clear that these claims are wholly unfounded.” He noted that the DG’s personal staff and aides represent a variety of states across Nigeria, including Oyo, Kebbi, Kogi, and Plateau, with none from Akwa Ibom. “The DG’s last four Military Assistants since 2021 have been from Borno, Kwara, Nassarawa, Niger, and currently Oyo State. This diverse representation indicates a commitment to competence, inclusivity, and fairness for which the DG DICON is widely known.”
Sani highlighted that 320 eligible DICON staff were cleared for this year’s promotion exercise, while 46 individuals were excluded due to previous disciplinary actions for persistent absenteeism and violations of the DICON Act 2023. “These personnel had been absent for over two weeks without valid justification. Staff orchestrating this mischief also admitted to have participated in a strike action in the corporation, further justifying their exclusion based on disciplinary grounds,” he noted.
In response to claims suggesting a fire at the factory was orchestrated to distract from staff grievances, Sani called the assertion “utterly ludicrous.” He added, “No sensible individual would risk compromising an establishment that employs over 800 people and is fundamental to their own professional stability and success.”
Regarding the 2019 minimum wage arrears and the 2022/2023 promotion arrears, Sani reiterated that these responsibilities lie with the federal government. “DICON has submitted all necessary documentation to the appropriate departments for consideration and approval. These allegations represent a calculated attempt by malefactors to tarnish the good reputation of DICON and its leadership during a pivotal moment in its efforts to transform DICON into an exemplary model of collaboration within the Military Industrial Complex,” he asserted.
Sani concluded by expressing disappointment that the media outlet responsible for the allegations did not verify their claims before publication. He stated, “As we work together toward fulfilling DICON’s mission, we expect all personnel to maintain discipline and uphold public service regulations. DICON staff are encouraged to renew their commitment and collaboration in achieving DICON’s objectives.”(NAN)
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