NASS employees demand strict compliance with federal character principle

From Romanus Ugwu, Abuja

National Assembly workers, under the auspices of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), have demanded an immediate correction of what they describe as breaches of the federal character principle in ongoing appointments into the directorate cadre.

PASAN, National Assembly Chapter, in a letter signed by its Chairman, Sabiyyi Sunday, urged the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) to draw inspiration from President Bola Tinubu’s recent reversal of the controversial elevation of his Aide-de-Camp to Brigadier General, describing it as a decision that underscored the supremacy of due process and the principle that no public official is above the law.

The association rooted its petition in constitutional and statutory mandates designed to ensure fairness in public service recruitment.

While quoting the law as captured in its correspondence, PASAN stated: “We humbly draw attention to the provisions of section 14(3) of the 1999 constitution as amended, further detailed in the Federal Character Commission Act, Cap F7, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2024, which mandates equitable representation across Nigeria’s federating units in public appointments.

“Respecting this principle in appointments is crucial to maintaining fairness and avoiding perceptions of bias. We urge the Commission to ensure compliance to prevent potential industrial unrest.”

The workers commended President Tinubu’s ADC reversal as a decisive demonstration of leadership anchored on fairness and integrity.

According to them, such an action signals a clear expectation that institutions must uphold the law without fear or favour.

They urged the NASC to “follow this exemplary precedent and ensure that its decisions reflect balance, justice and the highest standards of good governance.”

While warning that continued disregard for constitutional provisions could trigger industrial tension, PASAN called on the Commission to take immediate corrective action and restore confidence in the appointment process. “We trust that you will take immediate action, and appreciate your attention to this matter,” the union wrote.

With the workers’ letter now in circulation, attention is expected to shift to how the NASC responds and whether the broader message of accountability from the presidency will resonate within the National Assembly bureaucracy.