Equal Opportunities or Empty Promises Senate Targets Agencies Ignoring Federal Character Law

By Achimi Muktar

In a heated session at the National Assembly, the Senate issued a stern warning to federal ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs), emphasizing the need for strict adherence to the Federal Character Principle in recruitment exercises.

The Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Affairs, led by Senator Allwell Onyesoh (Rivers East/PDP), made the declaration during a public hearing titled “Equal Opportunities for All” on Thursday. The session was convened to scrutinize recruitment practices at Galaxy Backbone Limited, an agency under the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, and assess its compliance with constitutional requirements.

Galaxy Backbone Under Fire

Galaxy Backbone Limited came under sharp criticism after lawmakers uncovered allegations of lopsided employment practices. The agency reportedly ignored multiple invitations to explain its recruitment activities, prompting accusations of blatant disregard for the Federal Character Principle—a constitutional mandate for equitable representation across Nigeria's diverse ethnic and regional groups.

Senator Onyesoh did not mince words, condemning the agency’s actions as a direct affront to the authority of the National Assembly. “Ignoring four consecutive invitations is not only disrespectful but also unacceptable,” he asserted, warning that further defiance would trigger severe consequences.

Conflicting Compliance Claims

At the center of the controversy was the issuance of a compliance certificate allegedly granted to Galaxy Backbone Limited despite its questionable hiring practices. The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Dr. Muheeba Farida Dankaka, refuted these claims.

“I cannot confirm whether a certificate of compliance was issued to Galaxy Backbone Limited,” Dr. Dankaka said. She requested additional time to verify records and provide a comprehensive report.

Senate’s Next Steps

Lawmakers adjourned the hearing, giving the Federal Character Commission time to investigate the matter further. Meanwhile, the Senate directed its Clerk to re-invite all involved parties, including Galaxy Backbone Limited, whose CEO is now mandated to appear at the next session.

“Failure to comply will leave us with no choice but to issue a warrant of arrest against Galaxy Backbone Limited’s management,” warned Senator Onyesoh.

Reaffirming Equity and Accountability

The Senate’s firm stance underscores its commitment to upholding constitutional values of fairness and inclusivity in public sector employment. Lawmakers emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, particularly in an era where unequal opportunities could deepen regional tensions.

“The Federal Character Principle exists to foster unity and equal representation,” Onyesoh reminded attendees, “and no agency is above the law.”

The upcoming hearing is expected to be pivotal in determining whether Galaxy Backbone Limited—and other MDAs—will face consequences for disregarding constitutional mandates.

Public Reactions Awaited

The public, already divided on the issue, eagerly anticipates the Senate’s next move. For many, this case is more than a bureaucratic tussle—it is a test of whether the government can truly enforce equality in its institutions.

Will the Senate’s actions mark the beginning of stricter enforcement of the Federal Character Principle, or will it be another empty promise? Only time will tell.