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From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja
The Senate has vowed to identify and hold accountable Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) found guilty of violating the Federal Character principle in their recruitment, promotions and other related matters.
The Federal Character principle rooted in Sections 14(3) and 14(4) of the 1999 Constitution, mandates inclusive representation in federal and state institutions to reflect Nigeria’s ethnic and regional diversity. It aims to prevent domination by any group and foster national unity and equitable governance.
In its investigative hearing which began yesterday, the lawmakers condemned flouting of the principle over the years, leading to cries of marginalisation and systemic imbalance.
The hearing is sequel to a motion passed in plenary on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, sponsored by Minority Whip, Osita Ngwu. The Senate had tasked its Committee on Federal Character to investigate alleged infractions across federal institutions.
At the inaugural interactive session with heads of key agencies at the National Assembly, the chairman of the committee, Allwell Onyesoh, suggested that a Federal Character Compliance Tribunal may be necessary to ensure accountability.
“The Federal Character Principle is central to our national cohesion. It was designed to ensure inclusivity and prevent sectional dominance,” he said. “Unfortunately, persistent violations in recruitment and infrastructure distribution by many MDAs have undermined this goal.”
Onyesoh noted that while the Federal Character Commission holds statutory authority to enforce compliance, weak enforcement mechanisms have allowed widespread abuse.
He also made clear that President Bola Tinubu fully supports the investigation, warning those attempting to shield themselves through political connections: “Anyone hoping to hide behind the presidency will be disappointed. This is the time for reckoning.”
He added that the committee will pursue its mandate through investigative hearings, on-the-spot assessments, and collaborative engagements with stakeholders. “This is not a witch-hunt,” he stressed. “Our goal is corrective – to restore fairness and rebuild public trust in governance.”
Vice Chairman of the Committee, Simon Lalong, reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to ending the widespread breach of the constitutional provision.
Among the first agencies to appear before the committee next week are the Federal Character Commission, Federal Civil Service Commission, Nigerian Ports Authority, National Pension Commission, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
