AYSDGG Kicks Against Yakawada's Appointment, Calls It Unconstitutional

By Khalid Idris Doya  The Arewa Youths for the Sustenance of Democracy and Good Governance (AYSDGG) has condemned the decision of the Minist...

By Khalid Idris Doya 

The Arewa Youths for the Sustenance of Democracy and Good Governance (AYSDGG) has condemned the decision of the Minister of Regional Development, Engr. Abubakar Momoh, to appoint Hon. Lawal Sama'ila Abdullahi Yakawada as the Chairman of all Boards of Commissions under the Federal Ministry of Regional Development.

The group described the appointment as illegal, unconstitutional, and a violation of the enabling acts that established the development commissions.

Speaking at a press conference held at Chartwell Hotel, Bauchi yesterday, the group's Coordinator, Engr. Aliyu Musa Aliyu, flanked by the Secretary, Lawal Abdullahi, and other stakeholders, faulted the Minister's action, insisting that no one has the power to override the provisions of the law.

Aliyu argued that the unilateral appointment of a chairman without constitutional authority is null, void, and of no effect, stressing that such power rests solely with the President, subject to Senate confirmation, as stipulated by the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the acts establishing the respective commissions.

"This action amounts to a usurpation of both Presidential and National Assembly powers, in clear violation of the principles of separation of powers and due process," Aliyu stated.

The group further warned that the move undermines transparency, federal character, and good governance, and could erode public confidence in the operations of the Commissions created to drive regional development.

AYSDGG therefore called on the National Assembly, the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), civil society groups, security and law enforcement agencies, and the media to rise in defense of the rule of law and ensure that the development commissions are not weakened by undue political interference.

Aliyu urged the Minister to "Follow the path of honour and reverse his decision," warning that failure to do so would leave the group with no option but to seek legal redress.

The youths also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly to call the minister to order in the interest of justice, democracy, and good governance.