Senate to expose MDAs violating Federal Character rules

The Nigerian Senate has pledged to unveil Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) that flout the Federal Character principle in their recruitment processes.

Senator Allwell Onyesoh (PDP–Rivers) made this declaration on Wednesday during an investigative hearing on the violation of the federal character system across MDAs. He stressed the importance of transparency and warned MDAs against withholding any documents required for the investigation.

Citing Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution, Onyesoh emphasized that the Federal Character Principle was vital for national unity, as it ensures inclusivity and prevents domination by any single group.

“Sadly, systemic abuse and poor enforcement have reduced this principle to mere rhetoric,” he said, adding that the consistent non-compliance by MDAs in recruitment and infrastructure distribution has fueled feelings of marginalization among citizens.

Onyesoh proposed urgent reforms, including the establishment of a Federal Character Compliance Tribunal, to address violations effectively.

“The aim is corrective, not punitive. We seek to promote accountability, reinforce fairness, and restore public trust in national institutions,” he noted, while assuring that the committee would utilize its constitutional powers under Sections 88 and 89 if necessary.

He also stated that President Bola Tinubu fully supports the investigation, warning that those attempting to shield themselves behind the presidency would be disappointed.

Vice Chairman of the Committee, Senator Simon Lalong (APC–Plateau), reaffirmed the committee’s determination to halt ongoing violations in the interest of all Nigerians.

According to Lalong, agencies slated to appear before the committee from Monday include the Federal Character Commission, Federal Civil Service Commission, Nigerian Ports Authority, National Pension Commission, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), among others.

The Federal Character principle, enshrined in Sections 14(3) and 14(4) of the Constitution, mandates fair representation of Nigeria’s diversity in government appointments to foster national unity and belonging. However, the principle has often been violated by public officers at both federal and state levels.

The Senate had, on Tuesday, passed a resolution mandating its Federal Character Committee to probe alleged breaches following a motion by Senator Osita Ngwu (PDP–Enugu).