President Bola Tinubu has cautioned government officials and family members against clandestinely attending Federal Executive Council (FEC) meetings without an invitation. His warning came during the commencement of a FEC meeting held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
“Last week, I noticed people sneaking in and out of this council. People had access to this place when they should not. That is not acceptable,” emphasized Tinubu, expressing his displeasure at the unauthorized presence.
Emphasizing the need for order and protocol, Tinubu stated, “I will announce to you here, the people who are supposed to be here. Hadiza Usman, Special Adviser on Policy Coordination, Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Hakeem Muri-Okunola, Principal Private Secretary, and Damilotun Aderemi, Private Secretary, are the individuals granted the exception to attend while we conduct the nation’s business. Unless I have specifically sent for you, please refrain from attending.”
Tinubu further directed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and the Head of Civil Service of the Federation, Folashade Yemi-Esan, to diligently take note of his directive.
“Unless they are included in your staff, no one should have access to the FEC meeting, unless I have explicitly announced their names to you,” Tinubu firmly instructed.
Stressing the importance of meticulous planning in government events, Tinubu added, “Let me also state that the planning of any governmental event must be well articulated and precisely followed.”
Although rumors and misinformation have circulated, Tinubu expressed unwavering faith in the integrity of his Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila.
“There are a lot of stories going around about what is happening. I’ve told everyone in this country that I can make mistakes. I have had to listen to them and correct myself. Perfection belongs to God Almighty. I have absolute confidence in the integrity of my Chief of Staff,” assured Tinubu.
Tinubu concluded by calling for an end to any campaign of defamation and insinuation, urging everyone to focus on the important matters at hand.
–NAN
