The body responsible for ensuring fair representation across Nigeria’s government says a lack of cash is hampering its ability to police federal hiring. The Federal Character Commission (FCC) warned lawmakers on Friday that without a significant budget increase, it cannot effectively monitor the thousands of government agencies under its purvey. The warning was contained in a statement signed by the Commission’s spokesperson, Ademola Lawrence, following a budget defence session at the National Assembly. In the briefing, the new leadership of the FCC expressed frustration that their constitutional mandate—intended to prevent regional dominance in the public sector—is being undermined by “near-zero” financial support.
‘The Era of Token Funding Must End’
During the session, the Executive Chairman of the FCC, Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, told the House Committee on Federal Character that the commission is currently struggling to conduct nationwide monitoring or compliance audits. Despite these hurdles, Omidiran struck a resilient tone:”We are focused and determined to do the work that the Constitution and the President have entrusted us with. It is our responsibility to engage with relevant ministries to secure the funding we require.”The FCC is a critical pillar of Nigeria’s democratic framework, designed to ensure that the country’s diverse ethnic and regional groups are fairly represented in all government roles. However, critics and officials alike have long argued that the body lacks the “teeth” or the resources to penalize agencies that ignore these rules.
Legislative Support
The Chairman of the House Committee, Ahmed Wase, echoed the Commission’s concerns, describing the current budgetary allocations as unrealistic. He argued that the government cannot expect the FCC to enforce compliance across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) while it is “grappling with insufficient funding.”
Key takeaways from the House Committee’s response:
Commitment to Equity: Lawmakers pledged to advocate for a budget that reflects the “magnitude” of the FCC’s mandate.
Legislative Backing: Plans are underway to strengthen the Commission’s capacity to exercise its constitutional powers.
National Cohesion: Mr. Wase emphasized that funding the FCC is a deliberate step toward safeguarding national unity.
The session ended with a promise of “renewed collaboration” between the legislature and the commission, though it remains to be seen if these words will translate into the hard currency needed to keep the watchdog running.
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