Rejection of Sanwoolu's 17 Nominees: CHSR Addresses Lawmakers - "Do Not Politicize Development in Lagos State"

 Rejection of Sanwoolu's 17 Nominees: CHSR Addresses Lawmakers - "Do Not Politicize Development in Lagos State"

Written By Oluwatoyin Mathnuel 

A chorus of concern emerged among the masses following the recent rejection of seventeen out of the thirty-nine nominees for Commissioners and Special Advisers. These individuals were put forth by Governor Babajide Olushola Sanwoolu to the Lagos State House of Assembly.

The Center For Human And Socio-Economic Rights (CHSR), a registered organization of dedicated activists committed to safeguarding, upholding, and advancing the fundamental human rights of Nigerian citizens, operates under the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. The CHSR, which refrains from engaging in matters without substantial justification, has deemed it necessary to inquire about the rejection of nominees such as Prof. Akin Abayomi and Mrs. Adefisayo. These individuals served commendably during their previous tenure as commissioners and special advisers without any allegations of misconduct. The CHSR has also cautioned the Lagos lawmakers against appointing individuals who are not the right fit for the roles they are assigned.

The CHSR believes that the governance of Lagos State has not historically been subject to the arbitrary influence of partisan considerations. Since 1999, individuals from diverse backgrounds have had the opportunity to serve in the state cabinet based on merit or professional criteria. This approach has allowed Lagos, known as the "Center of Excellence," to benefit from the expertise of exceptional individuals, contributing to the state's growth and development. 

The CHSR calls on lawmakers not to turn development in the state into a political tool, emphasizing that Lagos is characterized by its religious and political diversity. The dominance of the APC in Lagos is a privilege, not an entitlement. The CHSR urges the lawmakers to discard baseless excuses against the rejected nominees, who have proven records of achievement, including the Commissioner for Health's remarkable efforts in managing the COVID-19 outbreak.

The CHSR contends that the legislators should not merely rubber-stamp the governor's nominees. The Human Rights Activists express dissatisfaction with the limited transparency in the screening process, which was not televised but occurred at the committee level.

In conclusion, during a press conference on August 28, 2023, CHSR President Alex Omotehinse, alongside fellow activists, called upon the Lagos State House of Assembly to emulate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's approach to ministerial appointments. The plea is to include capable individuals who can help Lagos, the "Center of Excellence" and burgeoning mega-city, maintain its status as the fastest-growing economy on the African continent.