Senate panel begins federal character audit of MDAs, says enforcement has failed

The senate has commenced an investigation into alleged violations of the federal character principle in recruitment and appointments across ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs).

The probe began on Wednesday with an interactive session between the senate committee on federal character and heads of key federal agencies.

The inquiry follows a resolution passed on March 25 after a motion sponsored by Osita Ngwu, the minority whip and senator representing Enugu west.

The federal character principle, enshrined in sections 14(3) and 14(4) of the 1999 constitution, mandates inclusiveness in public appointments to reflect Nigeria’s diversity and prevent domination by any ethnic group or region.

It aims to promote national unity, loyalty, and a sense of belonging among all citizens.

Over the years, the principle has been routinely flouted by government institutions, leading to growing public discontent and allegations of marginalisation.

Allwell Onyesoh, chairman of the committee and senator representing Rivers east, said the panel would conduct a thorough audit of MDAs’ compliance with the federal character principles.

Onyesoh warned agency heads not to conceal documents required for the investigation.

“As enshrined in Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the federal character principle is fundamental to our national cohesion,” he said.

“It mandates that governance must reflect the diversity of our federation to prevent domination by any one group or region.

“Sadly, systemic abuse and ineffective enforcement have made this principle more honoured in the breach than in observance.

“Persistent non-compliance by many MDAs in both recruitment and infrastructure allocation has fuelled marginalisation and deepened discontent.

“The federal character commission, despite its legal powers, has struggled with enforcement. This reality calls for urgent reforms —possibly including a federal character compliance tribunal — to ensure that violations are meaningfully addressed.

“This committee will pursue its mandate through rigorous investigative hearings, interactive sessions, and, where necessary, on-the-spot assessments.

“Our approach is not punitive but corrective. We aim to foster accountability, reinforce equity, and restore trust in our national institutions.

“We call on all stakeholders — MDAs, civil society, and the public — to support this process.

“Full cooperation is expected, and the committee will not hesitate to invoke its constitutional powers under Sections 88 and 89 where necessary.”

Onyesoh said President Bola Tinubu is fully behind the probe.

“Those aiming to hide behind or under the presidency would be disappointed, as the time to account for their misdeeds has come,” he said.

Simon Lalong, vice-chairman of the committee and senator representing Plateau south, said the committee is determined to halt the abuse of the principle in the interest of national unity.

Lalong said agencies expected to appear before the committee from Monday include the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Federal Civil Service Commission (FCSC), Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), National Pension Commission (PenCom) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).