Mohamed Garba
The Nigerian Senate has reiterated its commitment to ensuring strict compliance with the Federal Character Principle in the recruitment of workers across all government institutions. This assurance was given at a public hearing tagged “Equal Opportunities for All” held at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja on Friday.
Lawmakers condemned Galaxy Backbone Limited’s disregard for the principle, describing it as a breach of the nation’s Constitution. Senator Allwell Onyesoh, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs, expressed concerns over allegations that the agency failed to adhere to equitable representation in its employment processes.
The Senate Committee also inquired about the Federal Character Commission’s role in issuing waivers and certificates of compliance that allegedly enabled Galaxy Backbone Limited’s non-compliance. Dr. Muheeba Farida Dankaka, Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, refuted claims that the Commission issued a certificate of compliance to Galaxy Backbone Limited despite its lopsided employment practices.
The lawmakers resolved to adjourn the hearing, directing the management of the Federal Character Commission to prepare for further scrutiny. Galaxy Backbone Limited was warned to appear at the next hearing, with failure to comply resulting in a warrant of arrest for disregarding the National Assembly’s authority. This development underscores the Senate’s determination to uphold constitutional principles and ensure fairness in employment practices across government institutions.
