For not reflecting Federal character
By RICHARD IHEDIWA, Abuja

This followed the adoption of a motion to that effect by Senator Lee Maeba (PDP Rivers) who described the perceived non observance of the principle Federal Character in the nominations as a violation of the constitution .

First to speak against the list was Senate Chief Whip, Udoma Udo Udoma who took the floor immediately the chairman Senate Committee on Foreign Affair, Jubril Aminu moved that the Senate clear the nominees. Udoma pointed out that four states in the South South were not represented in the list of 26 nominees.

With the exception of Edo and Delta which had two nominees each, other states of the south south including Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River and Awka Ibom among 10 other states were not represented in the list while some states like Ogun had three nominees with other states in the south west and northern zones having two each. Most of the Senators who contributed to the debate except Victor Oyofo and Jibril Aminu, kicked against the list demanding explanation for the perceived lopsidedness. Rejecting the list, Senators Tawa Wada, Chris Adighije among others insisted that the principle of federal character in public appointment must be followed in the process. But, Oyofo and Aminu insisted that in the appointment of career ambassador, consideration which include years of service, educational qualification and performance and not federal character were paramount.

Ruling, Senate President Ken Nnamani said he was aware that another list was being forwarded by the Presidency and urged that action be deferred pending the receipt of that list.