The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has reversed his earlier decisions by reinstating two senior officials who were recently suspended from their duties.
Immediate Resumption Ordered for Reinstated Officials
In a statement released on Wednesday, December 17, by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communications, Lere Olayinka, the minister directed Dr. Danlami Hayyo and Michael Ango to return to their posts immediately. The statement carried a stern warning from Wike, emphasizing that acts of indiscipline among FCTA officials will not be tolerated.
Michael Ango's Removal and Reinstatement
Michael Ango, who was appointed in an acting capacity by President Bola Tinubu in August 2024, was initially removed from his position as the Acting Chairman of the FCT Internal Revenue Service (FCT-IRS) on December 5. No official reason was provided for his dismissal at that time.
His removal came just weeks after staff of the revenue agency organized an event in his honor, titled 'A Night with Ango'. During the event, he was commended for his visionary leadership and efforts to transform the FCT-IRS into a model revenue institution.
Case of the Education Mandate Secretary
The Mandate Secretary for Education, Danlami Hayyo, was suspended on November 26. His suspension was connected to the controversial circulation of a memo that ordered the closure of all public senior secondary schools in Abuja on November 28.
The memo, signed by the Director of School Services, Aishatu Sani Alhassan, cited unspecified security concerns. However, the FCT Administration swiftly denied issuing any such directive, with Wike's spokesman clarifying that no decision to close schools was taken at any administrative level.
In relation to this incident, Minister Wike has instructed the acting Head of Service, Nancy Nathan, to begin disciplinary proceedings against Director Aishatu Sani Alhassan in accordance with civil service regulations.
Ongoing Reforms in the FCT Administration
The reinstatements occur within the context of broader reforms being implemented by Minister Wike. In recent months, he has executed several reshuffles across agencies under the FCT administration. These moves are part of a strategic effort to enhance service delivery and improve revenue generation for the capital territory.
The quick reversal of the suspensions suggests a careful review of the circumstances, ultimately leading to the officials being cleared to resume their critical roles in the FCT's education and revenue sectors.
