Senator Allwell Heacho Onyesoh
Chairman, Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs. Said that systemic abuse and ineffective enforcement have made the Federal Character Commission principle more honoured in the breach than in observance.
He was speaking in Abuja at the inaugural session of the investigative hearing mandated by the Senate to examine the level of compliance by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) with the Federal Character Principle—particularly in appointments and infrastructural development across Nigeria.
“I must first commend the President of the Senate, His Excellency, Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, for his steadfast commitment to equity, inclusion, and unity. His leadership has paved the way for this vital national task.
As enshrined in Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Federal Character Principle is fundamental to our national cohesion.
“It mandates that governance must reflect the diversity of our federation to prevent domination by any one group or region.
Sadly,
Persistent non-compliance by many MDAs in both recruitment and infrastructure allocation has fueled marginalization 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.
“At the end of this process, we shall present a comprehensive report to the Senate with actionable recommendations—proposals that may include strengthening enforcement provisions within the Federal Character Commission Act.
“To my colleagues on this Committee: let us discharge this duty with diligence and impartiality. Our collective resolve today can help shape a more equitable future for Nigeria.
