Abuja: The Public Complaints Commission (PCC), Nigeria’s Ombudsman has called for better government funding and strategic restructuring of the commission for it to tackle administrative injustice across the nation. The Honourable Chief Commissioner of the PCC, Mr Bashir Abubakar, made the call in Abuja at a news conference to commemorate the golden jubilee of the commission, established on Oct. 16, 1975.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the PCC Act 1975 No.31, promulgated by the administration of late former Head of State, Gen. Murtala Mohammed, was advised by Jerome Udoji panel. Abubakar stated that in spite of the commission’s profound contributions to justice and accountability, inadequate budgetary allocations remain a major constraint on its operational efficiency and capacity building.
The chief commissioner highlighted the PCC’s enduring legacy as a vital bridge between the people and the government, emphasising its role in providing a cost-free, neutral platform for citizens to challenge administrative injustices. He noted that the constitution allows the commission to investigate complaints against federal, state and local government entities, statutory corporations and private companies, standing as a defender of the people’s rights.
He traced the modern Ombudsman concept to its roots in African traditions, where rulers and elders served as impartial mediators, laying the groundwork for the PCC’s role in dispute resolution. Abubakar revealed that the commission’s significant impact over the past five decades has been enriching, with 1,802,267 complaints received, of which 1,279,489 were successfully closed, with 522,778 pending.
He noted that the PCC’s actionable reports have led to the amendment of unjust regulations and policy changes, thereby strengthening administrative fairness. Despite achievements, the commission still faces significant challenges, particularly inadequate funding, which has constrained logistics, capacity building, and operational efficiency.
According to him, the commission partners with the Nigerian Police and the Judiciary to ensure compliance with its resolutions. He added that these dialogues would enhance the commission’s capacity to serve Nigerians effectively. Looking ahead, Abubakar assured Nigerians of his commitment to repositioning the PCC for better services in the future.
He announced that a strategic event, themed, ‘Effective Ombudsman Institution: Catalyst for Good Governance,’ will be hosted on Oct. 21, at the Abuja Continental Hotel. The event will be attended by President Bola Tinubu and the leadership of the National Assembly, to discuss the PCC’s journey and future direction.
He appealed to the press to continue their partnership in amplifying the commission’s work and educating Nigerians about their rights, urging citizens to actively use the institution. He expressed optimism that the current administration and the National Assembly would address the funding challenges and review the PCC Act to align with modern realities.