Abstract
Despite the introduction of the Federal Character Principle (FCP) and representative bureaucracy in Nigeria's public service, this policy is yet to effectively address the inherent problems of imbalances in staff recruitment, appointments and promotion, especially in the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria (FCN). This study examined how corruption in recruitment in the PCN affects adherence to the federal character principle; investigated how favouritism and nepotism in appointments and promotions affect the level of adherence to FCP in the PCN; and also assessed the implications of non-compliance with the FCP and representative bureaucracy in the PCN. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population of the study consisted of 388 staff of PCN, while the sample size was 191. Primary data were generated through a questionnaire, while secondary data were obtained from published textbooks, credible journal publications, magazines, internet materials and the Staff nominal roll. Representative bureaucracy theory by John Donald Kingsley guided the study. Findings of the study revealed that corruption in the recruitment and promotion processes in the PCN undermines adherence to the Federal Character Principle. Findings also revealed that noncompliance with the application of the quota system in the PCN affects regional and ethnic imbalances. The study recommended that representatives of the Federal Character Commission, National Assembly Committee on Federal Character, Inter-governmental Affairs and other related government establishments should be present during the recruitment, appointment and promotion of staff in the Pharmacy Council of Nigeria to ensure compliance with the federal character principle. Also, the management of PCN who erred in adhering to the FCP should be sanctioned.