The Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has launched a high-profile investigative hearing into the persistent non-compliance of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) with the Federal Character Principle. This move signals a renewed legislative commitment to promoting equity, transparency, and accountability in public governance.
The hearing, held at the National Assembly Complex, was inaugurated by the President of the Senate, His Excellency Senator Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, who was represented by Senator Peter Nwebonyi, Deputy Chief Whip of the Senate. Senator Akpabio commended the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs, chaired by Senator Allwell Onyesoh, for its unwavering dedication to fairness and inclusivity in national affairs.
“This investigative hearing is not a mere formality,” the Senate President emphasized. “It is a solemn duty to the Nigerian people. Our mission is to uphold the rule of law and scrutinize our institutions no matter how uncomfortable the findings may be. Democracy thrives when accountability is enforced and public trust preserved.”
In his opening address, Senator Allwell Onyesoh did not mince words in condemning the systemic disregard for the Federal Character Principle. He stressed that despite the clear provisions of Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), many MDAs continue to violate this principle, deepening feelings of marginalization and threatening national cohesion.
“Many MDAs have become habitual violators of the Federal Character Principle both in recruitment and infrastructure allocation,” Onyesoh stated. “This persistent non-compliance has only widened the trust deficit among Nigerians. Our goal is not to punish, but to correct. Where necessary, we will propose strong institutional reforms, including the creation of a Federal Character Compliance Tribunal.”
Senator Onyesoh also issued a stern warning to MDAs that have repeatedly failed to honor Senate invitations, often citing directives from the Presidency as justification. He described such actions as a serious affront to democratic accountability.
“We will no longer tolerate the deliberate absence of Chief Executives and Managing Directors from investigative sessions,” he declared. “Excuses will no longer be accepted. The Senate will invoke its constitutional powers under Sections 88 and 89 to ensure compliance. The era of impunity is over.”
The Committee has pledged to conduct rigorous hearings, stakeholder consultations, and field inspections, with a comprehensive report to be submitted to the Senate within three months. The report will include robust policy recommendations and potential legislative amendments aimed at strengthening the enforcement powers of the Federal Character Commission.
The session was attended by heads of various government agencies, including representatives of the Nigerian Armed Forces, paramilitary bodies, and other relevant institutions.
As the investigation progresses, national attention will remain fixed on the Senate’s ability to deliver on its promise to foster inclusion and uphold the integrity of Nigeria’s federal system.
