‎Sowore Blasts Tinubu Over Customs CG’s Tenure Extension, Calls Move ‘Morale Killer’

Presidential candidate of the African Action Congress (AAC), and human rights activist, Omoyele Sowore, has strongly criticized the Federal Government’s decision to grant a six-month tenure extension to the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Adewale Adeniyi, describing the move as detrimental to professionalism and institutional integrity.
‎
‎Sowore, in a statement issued via official X handle, rejected the extension, arguing that the Customs chief ought to have retired nearly two years ago in line with established public service regulations.
‎
‎According to him, extending the tenure of public officials beyond their retirement date undermines morale within government institutions and erodes confidence in the principle of due process.
‎
‎He maintained that such decisions hinder career progression for qualified officers waiting to advance through the ranks, while creating the perception that political considerations take precedence over established rules.

“This kind of wrong-headed policy is a morale killer in public institutions. It undermines professionalism, blocks career progression, and sends the message that rules apply only to some while others enjoy political favoritism,” Sowore stated.
‎
‎He further argued that no public institution can function effectively when due process is sacrificed for personal or political convenience.
‎
‎Sowore’s remarks come shortly after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved a final six-month tenure extension for Adeniyi, a decision the Presidency said was intended to allow the Customs boss consolidate ongoing reforms, including the implementation of the National Single Window project and other strategic initiatives within the service.
‎
‎The extension has generated mixed reactions among stakeholders, with supporters citing the need for continuity in key reforms, while critics argue that strict adherence to public service regulations is essential for institutional credibility and succession planning.
‎
‎