The Nigerian Senate has resolved to investigate the systemic abuse of the Federal Character principle in recruitment, promotion, and political interference in all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) of the government.
The lawmakers also aim to determine the level of compliance with Sections 14(3) and 14(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) by the MDAs.
The Senate’s decision was prompted by a motion sponsored by Senator Osita Ngwu, the Senate Minority Whip, who noted the persistent challenges in achieving balance and equity within Nigeria’s public service.
Ngwu cited limited recruitment opportunities, skewed promotions, and insufficient avenues for worker mobility outside the public sector as major concerns.
Ngwu emphasized that the Federal Character Principle, enshrined in the 1999 Constitution, mandates fair representation in federal appointments to reflect the country’s linguistic, ethnic, religious, and geographic diversity.
However, he observed that the process of addressing public sector disparities has been undermined by institutional inertia and a lack of accountability.
The lawmaker expressed concerns that the Federal Character Commission (FCC), despite being constitutionally empowered, remains hindered by chronic underfunding, political interference, and limited enforcement capabilities.
He also lamented that the contempt for the Federal Character Principle, if unchecked, will continually erode the efficacy of relevant laws and regulations.
The Senate consequently mandated its Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs to conduct thorough investigative hearings on all MDAs of the Federal Government.
The committee is expected to ascertain the degree of compliance with the provisions of Sections 14(3) and 14(4) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and report back within four weeks.
Ngwu highlighted the constitutional criteria for equitable distribution of employment, which requires each state to contribute its proportionate quota of 2.75% of the national workforce.
He also noted that certain regions remain underrepresented, and the quota system has created confusion between merit-based recruitment and equitable state representation.
The Senate’s resolution is a significant step towards addressing the systemic abuse of the Federal Character Principle and promoting fair representation in federal appointments.
The investigation is expected to shed light on the level of compliance by MDAs and identify areas for improvement.
