In a move to restore Enugu State’s representation in the Federal Executive Council, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has nominated the state’s Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, for appointment as a minister. The nomination was officially transmitted to the Senate and read during plenary by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
The President’s letter, which requests speedy confirmation in line with Section 147 (2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), states: “I am pleased to forward to the Senate the nomination of Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu-Udeh, SAN, for confirmation as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. While I hope that this request will receive the usual expeditious consideration of the Senate, please accept, distinguished Senate President and distinguished Senators, the assurances of my highest regards.”
Dr. Udeh’s nomination comes after the resignation of the former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, who stepped down amid allegations questioning the authenticity of his academic and NYSC certificates. The resignation left Enugu State without federal cabinet representation, a situation the constitution mandates must be rectified with at least one minister from each of Nigeria’s 36 states.
As a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and a respected legal practitioner, Dr. Udeh’s appointment is seen as a strategic effort by President Tinubu to maintain constitutional balance and restore political stability in the region. Following the reading of the President’s letter, the Senate President referred the nomination to the Committee of the Whole for immediate screening and confirmation proceedings.
This development is eagerly awaited by stakeholders in Enugu State and across Nigeria, as it marks a key step in filling the vacancy in the Federal Executive Council and reinstating Enugu’s voice at the national cabinet level.
The President’s swift action highlights his administration’s commitment to ensuring all states remain represented in the federal government, reinforcing the inclusivity and constitutional integrity of the Nigerian political landscape.
