North West Senatorial Candidates calls for Transparency in Selection of Directors for NWDC
By:Femi Mustapha
The Forum of the Northwest Senatorial Candidates in 2023 has called for transparency in the selection of Directors in the Northwest Development Commission.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Convener of the Forum, Balarabe Rufai, during a press conference held in Kaduna today
This is in response to the alleged nomination of the daughter of the APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and other APC Chieftain sons into the Commission.
The Forum stressed that such an attempt to place privileged individuals in these roles under the guise of stakeholder representation is both inappropriate and unacceptable.
The Forum called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse his approval if given already or disregard the self-serving letter entirely.
The Chairman opined that it is an affront to democratic culture and values, adding that the DSP and Speaker do not have exclusive authority over the North West Development Commission, nor do they have the right to dictate the region’s leadership in such a manner.
“The people of the North West of Nigeria commend the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria for his visionary decision to establish the North West Development Commission.
“This development brings hope to the region, fostering economic growth, addressing pressing infrastructural issues, and creating opportunities for our people.
“However, while we appreciate the President’s efforts, we are deeply concerned by recent developments that threaten to undermine the integrity of the Commission.
“It has come to our attention that a letter purportedly written by the Deputy President of the Senate (DSP) and the Speaker of the House of Representatives seeks to nominate the children of serving politicians for directorial positions in the Commission.
“We strongly reject this and call on the President to take immediate action. If this nomination process has already been approved, we implore the President to halt and reverse it. If it has not yet been approved, we urge him to disregard the self-serving letter entirely.
“While it is common knowledge that the DSP nominated the Managing Director of the Commission and the Speaker nominated the Chairman of the Board, with other State Governors selecting Board members, even though we have a great insight of the Chairman who is a visionary leader, exemplary leader and a dedicated public servant with an impeccable resume. We are prepared to accept these appointments in the spirit of unity and progress.
“However, the idea of appointing directors was based on political connections and family ties crosses a line. It is an affront to decency and a clear example of selfish political maneuvering. This must be rejected by all well-meaning Nigerians.”
The Forum also called on the Minister of Works to urgently address the issue of the Kaduna-Abuja road calling it an embarrassment that, despite 10 years of APC governance, the critical infrastructure project remains incomplete.
“As major stakeholders in the region, we find this delay unacceptable and deeply troubling. We urge swift action to complete the road and alleviate the hardships faced by the people of the region. We stand united in our commitment to the progress and prosperity of the North West and the entire nation.”
