In a context where the leak of sensitive documents is becoming increasingly worrying, the federal government, through the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, is taking measures to put an end to these unacceptable practices.
In a memorandum dated February 19, 2024 and published on the website of the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Dr. Folashade Yemi-Esan, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, described the leaks of sensitive documents to the public embarrassing and unacceptable.
In order to remedy this situation, Yemi-Esan has asked all permanent secretaries to migrate to a digitized workflow system.
She said: “It is dismaying to see the increasing cases of leaks of sensitive official documents within Ministries, Departments and Agencies. This is very embarrassing for the government and therefore unacceptable.
“As part of efforts to curb this undesirable development, all permanent secretaries must accelerate the migration to the digitalized workflow system and ensure effective deployment of the Enterprise Content Management Solution.
“This will reduce physical contact with official documents and thus limit their circulation and leaks.”
She also advised permanent secretaries to warn their staff against leaking official documents, saying anyone caught leaking documents would be severely punished.
“Furthermore, Permanent Secretaries are advised to strongly caution all staff against the disclosure and circulation of official information and documents.
“Any officer caught committing these reprehensible acts will be severely sanctioned, in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Civil Service Rules and other circulars in force,” she said.
A recent controversy erupted regarding the contents of a leaked memorandum from the office of the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun. This case highlighted the importance of protecting the confidentiality of official documents within government institutions.