Just in: Kano Ministerial Nominee Replaced before Senate Confirmation

From Ayodele Ayodeji, Ado Ekiti

The ministerial nominee from Kano State, Dr Maryam Shetty has been removed few hours before she took her turn for screening by the Senate and was replaced by another nominee Mairiga Mahmoud.

The letter replacing her was read at the plenary session by the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio.

Also in a curious twist, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also sent the name of another nominee, the immediate past Minister of Labour and Productivity, Festus Keyamo (SAN), for screening by the Senate,

The nomination of Keyamo has increased the number of ministerial nominees to 48

The letter read: “In compliance to the provision of section 147 sub section 2 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended.
“And sequel to my earlier correspondence dated August 2, 2023.

“I resolved to withdraw the nomination of Dr. Maryam Shetty.

“Furthermore, I am pleased to nominate Dr Mariga Mahmud and Mr Festus Keyamo for consideration, and if been fit, confirm by the Senate as ministers.

“While hoping the above request will receive the kind consideration and approval of the senate, please accept Distinguished Senate President and distinguished Senators the assurances of my highest regard”.