By Martin Odiete
Staff of the Sheda Science and Technology Complex (SHESTCO) have accused the immediate past Director General, Prof. Paul Chidozie Onyenekwe, of unlawfully remaining in office and accessing public funds weeks after the expiration of his tenure, sparking outrage and calls for urgent federal intervention.
In a protest media statement circulated on Thursday, the staff, who pleaded anonymity said Prof. Onyenekwe’s tenure as Director General ended on December 4, 2025, but he has allegedly refused to hand over to the most senior director, in defiance of established civil service rules and a directive from the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
The workers described the situation as a “blatant disregard for the rule of law and public interest,” insisting that the SGF had clearly instructed all heads of parastatals and agencies whose tenures have expired to immediately hand over to their most senior directors.
They further alleged that the former DG continues to access public funds and deploy agency resources “as if he is still in office,” an action they described as a gross abuse of power and a betrayal of public trust.
Beyond the alleged refusal to hand over, the staff raised deeper concerns about the legitimacy of Prof. Onyenekwe’s appointment in the first place. They called on anti-graft agencies the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to investigate claims that his appointment was not properly conveyed as a presidential approval through the SGF.
According to the statement, any irregularity in the appointment would cast serious doubt on the legality of his five-year tenure and the salaries and benefits paid to him during that period.
“If found culpable, we demand an immediate refund of all salaries and benefits received, and decisive action by relevant authorities,” the staff warned.
The protesters also appealed directly to the SGF to enforce compliance with government directives and to act swiftly to restore order at the agency.
They urged the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene, stressing that the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises transparency and accountability, should not tolerate “such blatant disregard for the law and abuse of power.”
The staff said they would continue to monitor developments and press for accountability, insisting that Nigerians deserve integrity and strict adherence to due process in the management of public institutions.
