DISENGAGEMENT LETHARGY AND THE TREND OF AGE FALSIFICATION IN NIGERIA’S PUBLIC SERVICE: A STUDY OF BAYELSA STATE

Abstract

This study examines disengagement lethargy, expressed as fear of retirement, and the associated rise of age falsification within Nigeria’s public and civil service, with a focus on Bayelsa State. The study investigates factors contributing to public servants’ reluctance to retire, including inadequate remuneration, poor reward systems, neglect of retirees, irregular payment of pensions and gratuities, and insufficient retirement planning. Anchored on Systems Theory, the study adopts a descriptive survey design using quantitative and qualitative methods. Findings reveal that inadequate retirement policies, delayed pension payments, and poor retirement preparedness significantly contribute to fear of disengagement and falsification of age records.