Workers at Nigeria's National Assembly have issued a strong demand for strict adherence to the Federal Character principle in all senior-level appointments. This call comes in the wake of President Bola Tinubu's recent decision to reverse the promotion of his Aide-de-Camp, an action the staff hail as a benchmark for due process.
Union Cites Presidential Precedent for Fairness
The demand was formally presented by the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria, National Assembly Chapter. In a letter addressed to the National Assembly Service Commission, PASAN called for the immediate correction of irregularities it identified in ongoing appointments to the directorate cadre.
The letter, signed by the chapter's chairman, Sabiyyi Sunday, pointed to President Tinubu's reversal of his ADC's promotion to Brigadier-General as a powerful example. The union stated this action demonstrated that no public office holder is above the law and due process must be followed.
PASAN urged the NASC to "draw inspiration from this exemplary action" and ensure all appointments reflect balance, fairness, and respect for the nation's constitutional provisions.
Constitutional Mandate and Alleged Violations
The union anchored its petition on specific legal frameworks governing public service appointments. It highlighted Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Federal Character Commission Act, Cap F7, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2024.
These laws mandate equitable representation from all of Nigeria's federating units in public appointments. PASAN argued that respecting this principle is crucial to maintaining fairness and preventing perceptions of bias or exclusion within the National Assembly service.
The association expressed deep concern over a perceived pattern of skewed appointments. It alleged that states already represented at the secretary cadre level were being repeatedly favored to fill new vacancies. Meanwhile, other states within the same geopolitical zones were being consistently overlooked.
According to PASAN, such practices violate both the letter and the spirit of the Federal Character principle, fostering feelings of marginalization among the workforce.
Warning of Potential Industrial Unrest
The staff union did not mince words regarding the potential consequences of inaction. PASAN issued a clear warning that the continued disregard for these constitutional provisions could trigger industrial tension within the National Assembly.
"We urge the Commission to ensure compliance to prevent potential industrial unrest," the union cautioned in its letter dated December 28, 2025.
While commending President Tinubu for his stance on integrity and fairness, PASAN called on the NASC to take immediate corrective measures. The union emphasized that such action is necessary to restore confidence in the transparency and equity of the appointment process.
With the letter now in the public domain, attention is expected to shift to the response of the National Assembly Service Commission. Observers will be watching to see if the presidency's demonstrated message of accountability will be mirrored in the administrative decisions of the legislative arm's commission.
