Tensions Rise in Plateau and Cross River Over Unfilled Ministerial Positions
Leaders, activists, and civil society organizations in Plateau and Cross River states are voicing their concerns over vacant ministerial positions following the resignations and suspensions of two key officials.
Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has urged President Bola Tinubu to promptly fill the ministerial slots left by Senator Simon Lalong, who resigned as Minister of Labour and Employment to return to the Senate, and Betta Edu, who was suspended as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation due to allegations of misappropriating over ₦585 million.
In Plateau State, APC leader Nde Jonathan Ishaku resigned from the party, citing the state’s ongoing lack of representation in the cabinet as his reason. In a resignation letter dated September 6, 2024, Ishaku expressed frustration at the continued vacancy, which he believes undermines Plateau’s constitutional right to ministerial representation.
Ishaku criticized the administration for not adhering to Nigeria’s Constitution, which mandates at least one cabinet member from each of the 36 states. He called the current situation a slight against the state and its party members.
Former Governor Simon Lalong, now a Senator, has also called for a replacement to fill the ministerial gap created by his departure. At an APC meeting in Jos, Lalong and other party members expressed their dissatisfaction with the prolonged vacancy.
Labour Party’s 2023 gubernatorial candidate in Plateau State, Prof. Patrick Dakum, echoed these sentiments, urging President Tinubu to address the issue swiftly. Dakum emphasized that the delay in appointing a new minister is unfair to the people of Plateau.
Additionally, the APC Like-Minds group and the Coalition of Indigenous Youth Nationalities in Plateau State have demanded immediate action to replace Lalong. Hon. Isa Maimadara and Comrade Paul Dekete, leaders of these groups, criticized the lack of representation in the Federal Executive Council (FEC) as a disservice to the state.
In Cross River State, there is debate over the fate of Betta Edu. Benedict Usang, executive director of Africa Dignity Foundation, called for her reinstatement, citing her hard work during President Tinubu’s campaign. Usang urged the President to make a decisive move to fill the position.
Conversely, human rights lawyer Chief Obono Obla supported the suspension of Edu, noting that it aligns with public service rules. He advised patience until the investigation concludes.
The ongoing debate reflects broader frustrations over political representation and administrative delays in these states.
