A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) member in Kano State, Alwan Hassan, has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio and his deputy, Senator Barau Jibrin, of intentionally delaying the confirmation of Engr. Abdullahi Garba Ramat as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC).

During a press conference in Kano, Hassan stated that the two Senate leaders are prioritizing personal and political interests over national progress, thereby hindering President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reform agenda. He noted that some parliamentarians are attempting to impose their personal interests on critical national appointments, rather than supporting the administration’s efforts to build strong institutions and deliver progress.

Hassan cited the case of Engr. Ramat as a prime example of political interference and selfish manipulation within the ruling party. Despite being nominated by the President and screened by the Senate Committee on Power, Engr. Ramat’s confirmation has been stalled due to the actions of Senate President Akpabio and his Deputy, Senator Jibrin. Hassan alleged that Senator Jibrin has repeatedly undermined qualified individuals from Kano State in federal appointments to maintain political control.

The APC chieftain listed several instances of alleged political interference linked to Senator Barau and Senator Akpabio, including the removal of Abdullahi T. Gwarzo as Minister of State for Housing and the obstruction of federal opportunities for Dr. Nasiru Gawuna and Murtala Garo. Hassan described Engr. Ramat as a brilliant young technocrat with advanced degrees in telecommunications and strategic management, and a strong record of modernizing energy systems in Kano State.

Hassan urged the Senate to swiftly confirm Engr. Ramat’s appointment, emphasizing that it would demonstrate the importance of competence and merit in Nigeria’s public service. The delay in Engr. Ramat’s confirmation has sparked concerns about the impact on the country’s energy sector and the effectiveness of President Tinubu’s reform agenda. As the Senate continues to deliberate on the appointment, the outcome is likely to have significant implications for the nation’s progress and development.