Abuja, Nigeria— Acting Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Kayode Oladele, has called for strengthened collaboration with the National Assembly to uphold the principles of equity, inclusiveness, and fairness in allocating public offices and socio-economic opportunities throughout Nigeria.
Speaking at a meeting with the House Committee on Federal Character in Abuja, Mr. Oladele emphasized the necessity of working closely with lawmakers to enhance oversight functions and address national concerns around perceived marginalization.
He acknowledged challenges facing the Commission, including inadequate funding to effectively monitor over 700 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and maintain presence in all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Oladele appealed to the legislature to back reforms, support joint public enlightenment initiatives, and increase budgetary allocations aimed at enabling the FCC to fulfill its constitutional responsibilities more efficiently.
However, he also raised concerns about some government agencies and state governments not cooperating with the Commission in executing its mandate to foster national unity.
The Acting Chairman requested legislative assistance to amend the Federal Character Commission Establishment Act to grant the Commission greater autonomy, including enhanced powers in enforcement, adoption of digital monitoring systems, and oversight of civil rights compliance.
In response, the House Committee Chairman, Ahmed Wase, criticized certain government entities attempting to encroach on the FCC’s functions.
Wase cited Section 14(3) and the Third Schedule of Nigeria’s Constitution, underscoring that the FCC is the sole body constitutionally charged with managing federal character matters.
He stressed that no act of parliament can supersede the Constitution, and agencies disregarding FCC guidelines are violating the nation’s highest legal framework.
The former Deputy Speaker asserted that the Commission’s role in ensuring equitable distribution of personnel and infrastructure will eliminate marginalization issues nationwide once fully implemented.
He also condemned unauthorized recruitments by some agencies lacking involvement of the FCC, noting these actions undermine the mandated fair employment distribution.
By Taiwo Olatinwo | August 6, 2025
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