Relocation of FAAN, CBN depts: Group berates legislators over silence

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna.

The Joint-action Committee of Northern Youth Associations (NYA,) has implored Members of the National Assembly to take immediate action on the purported relocation of 5 key CBN departments, and Headquarters of FAAN from Abuja, the Federal Capital Territory(FCT), to Lagos state.
The group, in a statement signed and made available to journalists by its Convener, Murtala Abubakar, Director of Public Communication & Strategy, Hashim Tom Maiyashi and Director, Gender mobilizations. Latifa Abdussalam.
However, the group commended the esteemed Senators and members of the House of Representatives who have raised their voices in disapproval of recent decisions about development.
“This commendation goes beyond a mere acknowledgement of dissent; it is a tribute to those who understand that their role as legislators is not just to represent but to safeguard the constitutional integrity of our nation. It is a commendable demonstration of commitment to the unity and balanced development of our nation.
“These representatives have rightly questioned the rationale behind these decisions, recognizing the potential negative impact on regional representation, economic equilibrium, and the overall stability of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. We in particular salute the courage and impeccable demonstration of public service by Senator Ali Ndume.
“Reports in the media indicate that the group of Senators elected by the people of the North – and whom they represent in the Red Chambers, muted the idea of taking the Federal Government to Court on the matter. While we respect the independence of the judiciary, we must emphasize that resorting to legal proceedings could be interpreted as a sign of procrastination.
“Our legislators hold a constitutional mandate to ensure that the Executive aligns its policies and programs with the constitutional principles that have been violated by the actions of the CBN and FAAN. The urgency of the matter requires expeditious legislative action to correct these deviations from our constitutional ideals.
“While acknowledging the proactive stance taken by these legislators, the Northern Youth Organizations would like to go a step further, calling long representatives in the National Assembly to exercise their full legislative oversight functions. In the spirit of constitutional governance, the Northern Youth Organizations call on our representatives in the National Assembly to exercise their full legislative oversight functions.”
“We urge them to set a definite deadline for the Executive to rescind the decisions related to the relocation of CBN departments and FAAN headquarters as well as to take proactive corrective measures”, the group stated.
It continues:”Given the magnitude of the decisions by the CBN and FAAN that demonstrate the unsuitability of the chief executive sees to preside over federal institutions, we urge our representatives to demand the immediate removal of the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Minister of Aviation from their positions.
“This is not a punitive measure, but an urgent step to restore public trust, ensure accountability, and uphold the constitutional integrity of key institutions that significantly influence our nation’s economic and administrative landscape.
“Executive decisions that impact the economic and administrative landscape of our nation must be made with competence, transparency, and adherence to constitutional principles.
“We believe by taking these measures you will not only be meeting up with the legitimate interests of your constituents, but will also demonstrate your ardent commitment to constitutional governance, national unity, and inclusive development.
“We anticipate that our representatives in the National Assembly will navigate these critical matters with wisdom, guided by the spirit of constitutional governance and a profound understanding of the constitutional principles that define our great nation.
“The Northern Youth Associations believe that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as the supreme law of the land, places utmost importance on the unity of our diverse nation. Any decision that could potentially undermine this unity, such as the relocation of key institutions, must be subjected to rigorous scrutiny to ensure alignment with constitutional principles.
“Secondly, the constitutional designation of Abuja as the Federal Capital Territory and the seat of government is not a mere administrative classification.
“It is a constitutional mandate that reflects our commitment to balanced development and equitable representation. Altering this designation requires careful constitutional consideration.
“Thirdly, empowered by the Nigerian constitution, the National Assembly has the authority of legislative oversight—a sacred duty to scrutinize and ensure the faithful execution of constitutional mandates.
“Intervention in questioning the decisions at hand reflects a constitutional responsibility to protect the interests of the Nigerian people.”