Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi conducted an unannounced inspection of the state secretariat in Dutse around 11am on Monday and discovered several offices of senior government officials locked and empty during working hours. The governor expressed disappointment over absenteeism and warned that his administration would not tolerate indiscipline.
Governor's surprise visit reveals empty offices
A video circulating online showed Governor Namadi moving through different offices at the secretariat, checking the presence of civil servants. Reports indicated that the inspection was carried out around 11am, with several offices of senior government officials found locked and many workspaces deserted. Among the offices reportedly affected were those of the Secretary to the State Government, Head of Service, and Accountant-General, which were locked at the time of the governor's visit. Several commissioners and permanent secretaries were also absent, although some officials, including the Commissioner for Works and some permanent secretaries, were present.
Governor's aide confirms inspection
The governor's Special Assistant, Garba Muhammad, confirmed the inspection, stating that the visit was part of Governor Namadi's broader oversight activities aimed at assessing staff attendance, punctuality, and workplace productivity. According to the statement, the exercise was designed to promote discipline, accountability, and improved public service delivery in the state.
Governor warns against absenteeism
Reacting to the development, Governor Namadi expressed disappointment over the absence of some officials and warned that his administration would not tolerate absenteeism or a lack of commitment among public servants. He stressed that government workers have a responsibility to be available during official hours to serve residents.
Similar inspection in June 2023
This is not the first time the governor has carried out a surprise visit to the secretariat. In June 2023, shortly after assuming office, Namadi also visited the complex unannounced to check workers' punctuality and raised concerns after finding many offices without their occupants during working hours.
Renewed focus on public service accountability
The governor's latest action has renewed discussions around accountability and attendance within Nigeria's public service, with state governments increasingly using unscheduled inspections to monitor workers' commitment to duty.
