The Coalition of Civil Society Groups for Peace and Good Governance has urged the Federal Government to immediately investigate allegations that Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila, Director General of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC), lacks a valid National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate.
The group made the demand on Thursday, April 16, during a press conference in Abuja, citing what it described as “deep concerns” over the NLRC boss’s alleged non-possession of the mandatory certificate required for public office holders in Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the coalition, Comrade Isa Yakubu, the convener, said preliminary findings suggest that Gbajabiamila did not undergo the compulsory one-year national service, which is a constitutional requirement for all Nigerian graduates under the age of 30.
“We call upon the National Assembly, Ministry of Youth and Sports, NYSC, and relevant security agencies to launch a thorough investigation,” Yakubu stated. “This is not just about one man’s credentials; it is about upholding the integrity of our public offices and maintaining public trust.”
Yakubu stressed that the NYSC certificate represents both a legal requirement and a symbol of national unity, warning that any breach could undermine the credibility of public institutions.
The group also warned against selective application of the law, stating it would continue to monitor developments closely and mobilize for accountability where necessary.
The allegations come after similar reports surfaced in February suggesting that the NLRC boss might have circumvented NYSC requirements, casting doubt on his eligibility to lead the regulatory agency.
As of press time, Mr. Gbajabiamila had yet to respond to the allegations.