IMPACT OF NON ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRANSPARENCY IN GOVERNMENT POLICY IMPLEMENTATION IN NIGERIA CIVIL SERVICE; (A CASE STUDY OF EKITI STATE CIVIL SERVICE COMMISSION)

This research investigates the impact of non-accountability and lack of transparency on government policy implementation in the Nigerian civil service, with a specific focus on the Ekiti State Civil Service Commission. The study explores the extent to which the absence of accountability and transparent governance structures impedes effective policy delivery, weakens institutional performance, and fosters administrative inefficiencies. The civil service plays a vital role in translating government policies into actionable programs; however, recurrent failures in implementation often stem from opaque processes and limited oversight. To provide a robust analysis, the study adopts a mixed-methods approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative research techniques. Qualitative data were gathered through well-structured interviews with key stakeholders, including senior and mid-level civil servants, policy analysts, and governance experts. Quantitative data were obtained through journals, books. The responses were analyzed to identify patterns and correlations between non-accountability, transparency deficits, and implementation outcomes. The study is grounded in an extensive review of relevant literature drawn from academic books, scholarly journals, and policy documents, which helped to frame the theoretical and conceptual basis of the research. Findings reveal a significant relationship between the lack of accountability structures and policy failures. Moreover, poor transparency practices such as restricted access to information, absence of public feedback mechanisms, and irregular reporting were found to reduce efficiency and public trust.The research further identifies issues like politicization of the civil service, weak internal controls, and inadequate monitoring and evaluation systems as core challenges. Based on these findings, the study recommends institutional reforms, including the adoption of open governance frameworks, enhanced capacity-building programs for civil servants, and the strengthening of accountability and auditing mechanisms. The study concludes that addressing these governance deficits is essential for improving policy implementation, restoring public confidence, and achieving sustainable development in Ekiti State and Nigeria at large.