Tinubu Triggers Job Loss Worries with Oronsaye Report Implementation Order

On Monday, President Bola Tinubu directed the full implementation of the Oronsaye Report, aiming to streamline the Federal Government’s structure. This decision, though anticipated, has ignited fears of job losses among thousands of federal government employees.

Amidst economic challenges, the order to merge agencies and scrap others is expected to face stiff opposition from organized labor. Tinubu’s administration emphasized the need for a leaner government, intending to cut costs and increase efficiency.

Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga revealed the development, stating that the decision was a result of extensive deliberations during the Federal Executive Council meeting. Many agencies are slated for scrapping or merging, marking a significant step towards implementing the Oronsaye Report, submitted twelve years ago.

While some commend Tinubu’s leadership for addressing the need for a more efficient civil service, skepticism arises. Questions about the genuineness of the order have been raised, especially considering recent additions to the federal ministries.

Political figures express varied opinions, with APC chieftain Uche Nwosu praising Tinubu’s commitment to reducing governance costs, while political economist Professor Pat Utomi calls it a paradox, suggesting a start with trimming the cabinet.

Former lawmaker Shehu Sani cautions about potential job losses and acknowledges the move’s positive aspect in cutting governance costs. However, critics point out Tinubu’s past appointments and accuse him of inconsistency in implementing reforms.

The Oronsaye Report, dating back to 2011, recommends reducing statutory agencies, abolishing some, and merging others. Despite past attempts to implement the report, the current move raises concerns about the government’s commitment to genuine reform.

As discussions on the implementation unfold, Nigerians emphasize the need for leaders to lead by example, urging scrutiny of the impact on political appointees and questioning the fairness of the proposed measures.

Protests have already surfaced over alleged attempts to manipulate the report, particularly concerning the Projects Development Institute, PRODA, in Enugu. Igbo leaders caution against deviating from the committee’s recommendations, emphasizing the potential for PRODA to contribute significantly to the nation’s technological advancement.