The Nigerian Senate recently found itself embroiled in a heated controversy during the screening process of Festus Keyamo, a ministerial nominee. The situation escalated to the point where the Chamber was forced into an executive session after Senator Bamidele Opeyemi, the Senate leader, moved a motion.
Before the chaotic scenes unfolded, Keyamo was asked to address the Chamber, providing an opportunity to present his profile and reasons why he should be considered a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. However, the peaceful proceedings were disrupted when Senator Darlington Nwokocha from the Labour Party, representing Abia Central Senatorial District, raised a point of order.
Senator Nwokocha drew attention to certain infractions committed by Keyamo against the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria during his time as the Minister of State for Employment, Labour, and Productivity. He specifically highlighted how the nominee had obstructed the Reps Committee from carrying out its oversight function on the usage of N52 billion funds allocated to his Ministry.
In light of the serious allegations, Senator Nwokocha motioned for the screening of Festus Keyamo to be suspended, citing adherence to parliamentary rules. Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe seconded the motion, adding to the mounting uproar within the Senate.
To restore order, the Senate President decided to dissolve the Chamber into an executive session, thereby allowing for a more private and controlled environment to address the matter. Additionally, the Senate President instructed the nominee to be escorted out of the Chamber by the Sergent-At-Arms.
As the controversy surrounding Festus Keyamo’s screening continues, the Nigerian Senate faces a crucial decision in ensuring a fair and just process in appointing ministers for the country. The events that unfolded during this session serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding constitutional values and transparency in governance.