The Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has denied claims that certain staff members were excluded from the 2024 promotion list due to participation in a staff protest. The management branded the accusations, published by an online media outlet on October 14, 2024, as unfounded and a deliberate attempt to tarnish the corporation’s image.
In a statement issued by Deputy Director of Information/Media, Haruna Mohammed Sani Major, DICON clarified that the promotion process strictly adheres to established Public Service Regulations. The promotion decisions are made by civilian-led Senior and Junior Staff Committees, with no interference from military personnel. The Director-General (DG) of DICON merely approves the recommendations of these committees, based on their objective assessments.
DICON also dismissed accusations of tribalism against its leadership, stating that the DG’s personal staff and aides are from diverse states across Nigeria, including Oyo, Kebbi, Kogi, and Plateau, with none from the DG’s home state of Akwa Ibom. Since 2021, the DG’s military assistants have been drawn from various states, further demonstrating the commitment to inclusivity and fairness in the corporation.
DICON management emphasized that 320 eligible staff members were cleared for promotion in 2024. However, 46 employees were excluded due to past disciplinary actions, including violations of the DICON Act 2023 and absenteeism. Those excluded had either been absent without valid justification or participated in strikes, further justifying their removal from the promotion list.
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Addressing complaints about delays in the Integrated Personnel Payroll System (IPPIS) enrollment and unpaid promotion arrears, DICON made it clear that these responsibilities fall under the jurisdiction of the Federal Government, not DICON itself. The corporation has submitted all necessary documentation for processing, reaffirming that the DG did not invent these systems but is committed to ensuring all allowances are paid.
DICON also debunked claims that a fire at the factory in March 2023 was orchestrated to distract attention from staff grievances, calling the accusation “ludicrous.” The management stressed that no one would risk jeopardizing the employment of over 800 workers in such a reckless manner.
The corporation called on all staff to maintain discipline, renew their commitment, and work together to achieve DICON’s mission. DICON management expects professionalism and integrity from both its personnel and the media, urging outlets to verify claims before publication.
