The National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) has raised concerns over the simultaneous engagement of the Minister of Arts and Culture, Mrs. Hannatu Musawa, as a serving youth corps member and a minister. The Director of Press and Public Relations at NYSC, Eddy Megwa, revealed that Mrs. Musawa’s current role as a minister is in direct violation of the NYSC Act.
In a phone conversation with Daily Trust reporter, Megwa confirmed that Mrs. Musawa has been serving as a youth corps member for the past eight months within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). According to Megwa, the NYSC Act stipulates that no corps member should assume any government position until they have completed the mandatory one-year service.
Mrs. Musawa’s journey within the NYSC program dates back to 2001 when she was initially mobilized for her service in Ebonyi State. Subsequently, she relocated to Kaduna State to continue her service after the orientation program. However, upon reaching Kaduna, she reportedly absconded and did not complete the service as required.
Eddy Megwa emphasized that the NYSC scheme is examining this situation and will take appropriate action as necessary. Legal experts have also weighed in on the matter, pointing out the legal implications of Mrs. Musawa’s dual roles.
Prominent lawyer Abeny Mohammed (SAN) highlighted that such actions constitute a breach of the NYSC Act, which mandates that individuals must either complete the one-year service or be exempted before seeking or accepting employment. Mohammed stated, “It shows the inconsistency in our policies and disregard for our laws.”
Similarly, Femi Falana (SAN) emphasized that it is a violation of the law for an individual to concurrently serve in the NYSC while holding a ministerial appointment. Falana referenced Section 2 of the NYSC Act, which outlines the age and eligibility criteria for participation in the one-year compulsory national youth service. He stated that individuals above 30 years old are not eligible to partake in the service.
This incident highlights the need for adherence to established legal frameworks and regulations, reinforcing the importance of maintaining the integrity of institutions such as the NYSC, while also underscoring the significance of upholding the rule of law in all facets of governance.
