Senate begins screening of Tinubu’s ministerial nominee

The Senate on Thursday commenced the screening of President Bola Tinubu’s ministerial nominee for the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, Muttaqha Darma, marking the latest step in the administration’s efforts to strengthen its cabinet.

The minister-designate was ushered into the chamber at exactly 12:32 pm, where he appeared before lawmakers in plenary for the constitutionally mandated exercise.

As of press time, senators had begun questioning the nominee on his qualifications, policy direction, and readiness to manage the critical housing portfolio.

The screening follows a formal request transmitted to the upper chamber by the President on Wednesday, seeking Darma’s confirmation as a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, who read the communication from Tinubu during plenary, subsequently referred it to the Committee of the Whole for consideration, directing that the panel report back as soon as practicable.

Tinubu ministers gripped by fear after cabinet sackings

President Bola Tinubu’s ministers appear gripped by fear following the recent sacking of some of their colleagues.

Recall that the President relieved the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, and the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, of their positions on Tuesday.

Meanwhile, complaints had earlier emerged in some quarters that some cabinet members add no value to the administration.

It was also alleged that some political appointees lack the pedigree to translate President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda into reality across their ministries, departments, and agencies.

A minister, who visited the Presidential Villa on Wednesday, jokingly told journalists that there is an earthquake going on and everyone is in panic mode now.”