Aso Rock to ‘deal’ with staff who leak info

Abba Kyari, chief of staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, has warned workers of the presidential villa against leaking official letters or other sensitive documents.

Kyari gave the warning on Tuesday during a send-forth ceremony organised for retired staff and those posted to foreign mission.

“One thing we cannot tolerate is letters and information going out of this office.  I have seen one with my signature shown to me,” he said.

“I do not know who that is, I do not know why anyone should do that but please make sure that that does not happen. Anything that is written, it will come out anyway, it is not a secret but the bad thing is for it to come out before it is publicly made by the relevant authorities.

“So, please don’t fall into this trap of somebody asking you to bring a letter, because if by accident you are found or the letter traced to you clearly it would not be something that we would tolerate.”

He also advised the workers to remain committed to their duties and avoid acts that were detrimental to the interest of the state house.

“Those of us who are remaining here, we should remain and rededicate ourselves, do not make rooms for small talks or gossip; concentrate and do your job,” he said.

“What I want to announce now is that very soon when a full team is constituted the turn-around for any mail should not be more than 48 hours.

“If you think you can’t turn it out within 48 hours then I should know why. Maybe you have to ask some questions from somewhere. Please, let no mail remain on any body’s desk for more than 48 hours.”

He also warned against the abuse of office, maintaining that those found wanting would be dealt with accordingly.

“This office is not about giving contracts. This office is not about peddling influence. It is not about being paid to make somebody see the president,” he said.