The senate has commenced an investigation into alleged violations
of the federal character principle in recruitment and appointments across
ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).
The probe began on Wednesday with an interactive session
between the senate committee on federal character and heads of key federal
agencies.
The inquiry follows a resolution passed on March 25 after a
motion sponsored by Osita Ngwu, the minority whip and senator representing
Enugu west.
The federal character principle, enshrined in sections 14(3)
and 14(4) of the 1999 constitution, mandates inclusiveness in public
appointments to reflect Nigeria’s diversity and prevent domination by any
ethnic group or region.
It aims to promote national unity, loyalty, and a sense of
belonging among all citizens.
Over the years, the principle has been routinely flouted by
government institutions, leading to growing public discontent and allegations
of marginalisation.
Allwell Onyesoh, chairman of the committee and senator
representing Rivers east, said the panel would conduct a thorough audit of
MDAs’ compliance with the federal character principles.
Onyesoh warned agency heads not to conceal documents
required for the investigation.
“As enshrined in Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as
amended), the federal character principle is fundamental to our national
cohesion,” he said.
“It mandates that governance must reflect the diversity of
our federation to prevent domination by any one group or region.
“Sadly, systemic abuse and ineffective enforcement have made
this principle more honoured in the breach than in observance.
“Persistent non-compliance by many MDAs in both recruitment
and infrastructure allocation has fuelled marginalisation and deepened
discontent.
“The federal character commission, despite its legal powers,
has struggled with enforcement. This reality calls for urgent reforms —possibly
including a federal character compliance tribunal — to ensure that violations
are meaningfully addressed.
“This committee will pursue its mandate through rigorous
investigative hearings, interactive sessions, and, where necessary, on-the-spot
assessments.
“Our approach is not punitive but corrective. We aim to
foster accountability, reinforce equity, and restore trust in our national
institutions.
“We call on all stakeholders — MDAs, civil society, and the
public — to support this process.
“Full cooperation is expected, and the committee will not
hesitate to invoke its constitutional powers under Sections 88 and 89 where
necessary.”
Onyesoh said President Bola Tinubu is fully behind the
probe.
“Those aiming to hide behind or under the presidency would
be disappointed, as the time to account for their misdeeds has come,” he said.
Simon Lalong, vice-chairman of the committee and senator
representing Plateau south, said the committee is determined to halt the abuse
of the principle in the interest of national unity.
Lalong said agencies expected to appear before the committee
from Monday include the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Federal Civil
Service Commission (FCSC), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), National Pension
Commission (PenCom) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
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