THE OFFICE of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF) has denied media reports alleging a plan to illegally extend the tenure of Mr Gabriel Aduda, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja, Mrs Eno Olotu, Director of Information and Public Relations in the HCSF office, described the reports as false and misleading.
She clarified that there was no plan by the Head of Service or the Minister of Defence to extend the tenure of Aduda or any other Permanent Secretary.
“The decision regarding the tenure or retirement of any Permanent Secretary is strictly guided by extant rules and subject to approval by the appropriate authorities,” she stated.
The HCSF office reaffirmed its commitment to the Public Service Rules (2021), specifically Rule 020909 (b), which stipulates that a Permanent Secretary shall serve a term of four years, renewable for another four years based on satisfactory performance, and no more.
Olotu quoted the Head of Service, Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, as reiterating her dedication to upholding due process, transparency, and integrity in the management of human resources in the Civil Service.
She added that the Head of Service maintained a strong commitment to upholding merit-driven leadership and reinforcing accountability in public governance.
The HCSF office advised the public to disregard such reports and refrain from spreading misinformation that could cause unnecessary tension or undermine confidence in the Civil Service.
It also urged Nigerians to rely on official channels for verified and accurate information. (NAN)