The Senate has launched a major investigation into alleged violations of the Federal Character principle in government appointments, promotions, and recruitment across ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs).
At a plenary session on Tuesday March 27th, lawmakers expressed concerns that several MDAs—including high-profile institutions like the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), NUPRC, NAFDAC, and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)—have repeatedly ignored constitutional requirements for equitable representation of Nigeria’s diverse ethnic groups.
Senate Minority Whip, Osita Ngwu, who sponsored the motion, noted that imbalances in federal appointments persist despite legal mandates ensuring fair distribution across all regions. He cited political interference, lack of accountability, and underfunding of the Federal Character Commission as major obstacles to enforcement.
The Senate has now directed its Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs to conduct a full-scale investigation into compliance levels within all MDAs and report back within four weeks.
Lawmakers warned that continued violations could further erode national unity and institutional efficiency. The outcome of this probe could lead to policy changes and stricter enforcement of the Federal Character principle in Nigeria’s public sector.
