Chidoka Tackles Tinubu’s Govt Over CBN Governor, Deputies’ Appointment Process

In a scathing critique of the current administration led by President Bola Tinubu, former Minister of Aviation, Osita Chidoka, has voiced his apprehensions regarding the appointment of the new Central Bank Governor and Deputy Governors. Chidoka alleged a blatant violation of the CBN Act in the process of their appointment.

Chidoka’s concerns were articulated in an open letter addressed to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN. He expressed his unease about the apparent disregard for established legal procedures and the principles of independence.

The former minister questioned why the President chose to appoint four Deputy Governors simultaneously, raising doubts about whether the previous Deputy Governors had resigned, as was the case with Godwin Emefiele, the former Governor. He contended that such a move was a deviation from the CBN Act’s emphasis on experience and continuity.

According to Chidoka, the CBN Act stipulates that the Governor and Deputy Governors should initially be appointed for a term of five years, with the possibility of reappointment for another term not exceeding five years. He argued that the Senate’s decision to grant all four Deputy Governors a five-year term might have exceeded its constitutional authority.

Chidoka urged the Attorney General to consider approaching the past Deputy Governors to encourage them to resign voluntarily before asserting their rights. Additionally, he proposed that the Minister request the Senate to amend their clearance to align with the provisions of Section 11(4) of the CBN Act. This, Chidoka believed, would ensure that the new CBN management concludes the tenure of their predecessors while maintaining continuity and experience within the institution.

In conclusion, Chidoka asserted that the government’s disregard for established rules and procedures was setting a dangerous precedent and called on the Attorney General to uphold the principles of legality and due process.