The National Population Commission (NPC) has denied allegations of issuing falsified birth certificates to Abia State civil servants, emphasizing that no fraudulent activities are conducted within its offices.
In a recent development, the Abia State office of the National Population Commission (NPC) has firmly denied allegations of issuing falsified birth certificates to civil servants for verification purposes. The controversy arose after reports surfaced accusing an NPC official of collecting N50,000 to issue a fraudulent birth certificate.
NPC Addresses Allegations
The NPC, through a press statement signed by Nwachukwu Ikenna, Head of Public Affairs for the NPC in Abia State, stated that the Commission is not involved in any fraudulent activities related to birth certificate issuance. Ikenna clarified that the NPC did not issue any falsified documents and disassociated the Commission from the alleged bribery incident.
“The National Population Commission wishes to categorically state that the Commission is not aware of the alleged letter of attestation or date of birth certificate issuance, nor does the Commission engage in such fraudulent activities,” the statement read. “The alleged receiver of such money is not known to the National Population Commission. Any person who has any proof of illegal or fraudulent activities involving any staff of the Commission should come up with verifiable evidence.”
Strict Protocols and Accountability
The NPC emphasized that it adheres to strict protocols when issuing letters of attestation, which are only granted after applicants present primary documents as required by the NPC Act. The Commission also assured the public that it would take stringent action against any staff found guilty of participating in fraudulent activities.
“NBC Abia only issues out letters of attestation after the applicant must have presented primary documents as required and stated by the NPC Act,” the statement continued. “The Commission will not hesitate to deal with any of its staff found to be an accomplice in any fraudulent activities.”
Concerns Raised by Abia State Head of Service
The allegations came to light after the Abia State Head of Service, Ngozi Obioma, raised concerns about some civil and public servants in Abia State allegedly obtaining court affidavits and birth certificates from the NPC to falsify their ages. In a press statement, Obioma warned that those involved in such fraudulent activities would face severe consequences, including dismissal from service.
“The office of the Abia State Head of Service in Umuahia has observed that some civil and public servants in Abia State are allegedly obtaining court affidavits and certificates of births from the National Population Commission,” Obioma stated. “They are quoting ages that suit them to falsify their ages. Anyone caught in the act would be summarily dismissed from service.”
NPC Calls for Evidence
In response to these allegations, the NPC has called on anyone with proof of illegal or fraudulent activities involving its staff to come forward with verifiable evidence. The Commission reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability, assuring the public that it does not condone any form of corruption within its ranks.
The National Population Commission’s firm denial and call for evidence highlight its commitment to maintaining integrity in its operations. The situation underscores the importance of transparency and accountability in public institutions to uphold public trust and confidence.
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