President Muhammadu Buhari has once again appointed a deceased individual to the Federal Character Commission (FCC).
This follows a similar incident in 2017 when five dead persons—Francis Okpozo, a former senator; Donald Ugbaja, a retired deputy inspector-general of police; Ahmed Bunza, former sole administrator of Jega local government in Kebbi State; Christopher Utov, ex-proprietor of Fidei Polytechnic, Gboko; and Kabir Umar, former emir of Katagum in Bauchi State—were named to various boards.
This time, the late Tobias Chukwuemeka Okwuru, from Amudo in Ezza South, Ebonyi State, who represented Ezza South/Ikwo federal constituency before his death at age 59, was included in the latest FCC appointments, announced two months after his passing.
Details of the Appointment
Okwuru was listed among 37 others appointed to the FCC board, with Dr. Farida Dankaka set to serve as chair.
The nomination was submitted to the Senate for confirmation.
Okwuru’s inclusion has raised questions, as he died in February 2020, prior to the announcement.
Meanwhile, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State congratulated two appointees from his state, Hajia Fareedah Dankaka and Mr. James Kolo, praising their dedication and loyalty to public service.
Governor’s Response
In a statement, AbdulRazaq said, “Our heartfelt congratulations and best wishes go to the two nominees.
The nomination is a reward for loyalty to a good cause, a conviction to stick to the truth, and long-standing commitments to the service of humanity, especially the good people of Kwara State.”
He expressed gratitude to President Buhari for recognizing Kwara by appointing its indigenes, adding:
“The government and people of Kwara State are very grateful for the recognition to have our daughter and son serve in the A-list parastatal.
We are confident that Hajia Fareedah and Mr. Kolo will make us proud in this call to serve our fatherland.”
Implications and Outlook
The repeated appointment of deceased individuals has sparked discussion about oversight in the nomination process.
As the Senate reviews the list, attention will focus on how such errors are addressed, while Kwara celebrates its representation on the FCC board.
