By Milcah Tanimu
Fifty Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) operating under the umbrella of the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria (COCSON) have called on President Bola Tinubu to initiate investigations into the alleged gross misconduct, corruption, and sabotage committed by the former Comptroller General of the Nigerian Agricultural Quarantine Service (NAQS), Dr. Vincent Isegbe.
In a petition addressed to President Tinubu, the COCSON highlighted the concerns surrounding Isegbe’s actions during his tenure at NAQS. The CSOs accused Isegbe of violating the Procurement Act, engaging in bribery and corruption, and sidelining legitimate quarantine staff. They allege that he collaborated with illegal casual staff and CTU police officers to facilitate the illicit export of donkey skin to China.
The CSOs claim that Isegbe’s actions led to the unlawful arrest, detention, and confiscation of donkey skin from traders, with the seized goods being transferred for export to China. The petition mentions specific incidents, including the interception of containers with seized donkey skin worth millions of Naira.
Furthermore, the CSOs accused Isegbe of transforming NAQS into an instrument of extortion and fabricating lies. They alleged that qualified animal quarantine officers, including veterinary doctors with over 15 years of experience, were marginalized, intimidated, and victimized within the organization.
The COCSON urged President Tinubu to take immediate action by investigating the serious allegations against Isegbe, holding him accountable for his actions, and conducting a thorough audit of NAQS operations to restore public trust. They also called for the issuance of licenses to legitimate donkey traders to foster legitimate trade and job creation.
The CSOs believe that addressing these issues will eradicate corruption within NAQS, contribute to revenue generation opportunities, create jobs, reduce unemployment, and mitigate security threats in Nigeria. They expressed their trust in President Tinubu’s commitment to good governance, accountability, and the welfare of all Nigerians.