CSOs Decry Senate Delay In Confirming NEDC Board Nominees

At least 150 civil society organisations (CSOs) have blamed the Senate for delaying the confirmation of the appointment of the members of the board of the North East Development Commission (NEDC).

At a press conference on behalf of the CSOs in the subregion, the coordinator of the group, Comrade Zakari Hashim, expressed dismay that the new management of NEDC led by the managing director and chief executive officer (MD/CEO), Umar Abubakar Hashidu, has not resumed office as directed by the immediate past President Muhammad Buhari because the Senate is yet to do the needful.

He said, “It is with deep disappointment and a heavy heart that we bring to your attention the blatant refusal of the Nigeria Senate to confirm nomination into the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) management, all for what appears to be selfish interests.”

The coordinator said as citizens, they are deeply concerned about the actions of the Senate President who he alleged has persistently neglected the requests of the former President for confirmation.

According to the group, they believe Buhari has acted in the best interest of the subregion and nation, basing his nominations on the qualifications of the individuals to ensure that technocrats and the best hands emerge to lead the North-East Development Commission (NEDC).

While describing the action of the Senate as disheartening and alarming, Zakari Hashim said the action signifies a dangerous precedent where political interests are prioritised over the will and mandate of the majority of people from the region.