“Given this worrisome outlook, it is obvious that the presidency would not attach any value or importance to the ministers under the ‘new sheriff.’ Could this also be part of the reason for the relentless onslaught against the National Assembly, which must be weakened and prevented from playing its constitutional role of checks and balances in the system?”
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As Nigerians wait on President Muhammadu Buhari to unveil his cabinet, indication emerged Monday that the list of ministers to be appointed is ready.
The Nigerian Senate would after six weeks of recess, resume sitting on Tuesday, September 29, as they will be expecting communication from President Buhari on ministerial nominees.
Addressing the lawmakers at Tuesday’s plenary session, Saraki said, “As we await the list of ministerial nominees this week, I believe the presence of ministers will create the space for greater policy engagement with the executive arm of government”.
There has been speculation over who would make the list of the ministers.
Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) party swiftly countered the claim by the opposition, attributing the delay by the president largely on the transfer of power from one party to another. He said he would name his cabinet in September.
All things being equal, the communication from Buhari to Saraki, containing the list in line with the provisions of the constitution, which mandates the President to send such list to the Senate for screening and confirmation, would be received today.
There are indications, however, that Buhari, who is now attending the 70th United Nations General Assembly, in New York, had concluded work on the list.
“Whereas, other affected Chad basin countries were fully represented and had fruitful discussions with officials of the world body, the government of Nigeria, which has the biggest challenge of displaced persons, was nowhere to be found”.
Metuh added that the refusal of the President to have a cabinet was already taking its toll on government’s activities, both in the country and outside.
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President Buhari had earlier promised that his cabinet would be ready latest September 30.
