Presidency Withdraws Oriaku’s Nomination, Sends Ikeji to Senate

President Bola Tinubu has withdrawn the nomination of Obinna Oriaku as Abia State’s representative in the Federal Character Commission (FCC) and forwarded a fresh nominee, Victor Ikeji, to the Senate for confirmation.

The President’s letter announcing the change was read during Tuesday’s plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Tinubu, in the communication, invoked Section 154(1) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which empowers the President to appoint members of the Commission subject to Senate confirmation.

Oriaku’s initial nomination, dated October 9, with the appointment confirmed in November by the Senate before the sudden withdrawal. No reasons were provided for the replacement, but the move brings a new twist to the process of filling Abia’s slot on the Commission, which plays a key role in promoting equitable distribution of federal appointments and socio-economic opportunities across Nigeria.

Following the reading of the letter, Akpabio referred Ikeji’s nomination to the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Inter-Governmental Relations. The committee was directed to conduct the screening and submit its report within one week.

Tinubu’s new nominee, Ikeji, is expected to appear before the committee in the coming weeks as the Senate moves to conclude confirmation procedures.