Follow Us on Google
From Okwe Obi, Abuja
The Public Complaints Commission (PCC) has disclosed that in the last 50 years, it has received 1,802,267 complaints, of which 1,279,489 have been resolved and closed, and 522,778 still pending.
PCC Honourable Chief Commissioner Bashir Abubakar disclosed this in Abuja, at a press briefing to mark the 50th anniversary of the commission.
He said: “The success of the Commission has been evident in the 1,802,267 complaints it has received, out of which 1,279,489 were successfully closed in the last 50 years, with 522,778 pending.
“Our actionable reports and recommendations have led to the amendment or removal of unjust regulations, enhancing administrative fairness.
“The PCC has been a beacon of hope, standing as a defender of the people’s rights. Our work has minimized conflicts between citizens and institutions, fostering trust and stability.
“The United Nations, through Resolution 75/186 of December 16, 2020, recognized the critical role of Ombudsman institutions in promoting human rights, good governance, and conflict prevention, urging member states to adequately resource them.”
Despite the successes recorded, Abubakar lamented that the PCC faces challenges like inadequate funding.
“Limited budgetary allocations have constrained our logistics, capacity building, and operational efficiency.
“While we have forged partnerships to enhance our enforcement capabilities, greater support from the government and policymakers is essential to fully realize our mandate.
“Under my leadership, appointed by the National Assembly, we are committed to repositioning the PCC for the next 50 years.
“We are restructuring our operations to align with global best practices, leveraging technology for efficient case management to ensure swift justice.
“Our partnerships with technological organisations aim to streamline complaint resolution, embodying the principle that justice delayed is justice denied,” he added.
To mark this golden jubilee, he said the PCC would host a strategic event on October 21, 2025, at the Abuja Continental Hotel, themed “Effective Ombudsman Institution: Catalyst for Good Governance.”
He said the event would bring together President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas and other stakeholders to reflect on the PCC’s journey and chart a path for a stronger Ombudsman.
“We also intend to host two panellists’ discussions with the topics: Ombudsman Mission Under the Democratic Governance; Alternative Dispute Resolution (Panacea for Sustainable Peace & Development).
“We are optimistic that these dialogues will enhance the Commission’s capacity to serve Nigerians effectively,” he said.
