He appointed Ministers of the Government of the Federation to work with him in accordance with Section 147 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (CFRN 1999). Specifically, he appointed 36 ministers (from each of the 36 states of the federation which is the minimum number as prescribed by Section 147 (3) CFRN 1999. The abovementioned section provides that each of the 36 States of the Federation must have at least one minister in the federal cabinet.
In March this year, James Ocholi, SAN, from Kogi state, one of the ministers appointed by President Buhari, died in an auto crash. The government and people mourned him. It was the second time a serving minister would die in Nigeria's history.
Six months since his death, the late minister is yet to be replaced. There are currently only 35 ministers. Therefore, Kogi state is being shortchanged. It equally means that the provision of Section 147 (3) CFRN 1999 is being breached. Given the circumstances which led to the late Ocholi's death and how unexpected it was, it is understandable if some time is taken to replace him. But six months is way too long. If it took President almost 6 months to appoint 36 ministers, he should have spent less time in appointing a replacement (one person) as minister.
It is hoped that the president would get it right soon and remedy this breach of federal character as enshrined in the constitution; a constitution he swore to defend.
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