FERMA: Onanuga Hails Listening President As Northerners Kick Against Imam’s Sack

President Bola Tinubu’s decision to reverse the nomination of 24-year-old Engr Imam Kashim Imam as chairman of the board of the Federal Road Maintenance Agency, FERMA has sparked kudos and knocks in different sections of the polity. It has been especially resented in some sections of the North.

The development comes after the recent withdrawal of Maryam Shetty’s nomination, further raising questions about the transparency and consistency of President Bola Tinubu government appointments.

Imam, who holds a first-class degree and Masters Degree from the University of Brighton in the UK, found himself at the center of controversy when his nomination as FERMA chairman was met with severe public criticism.

Many Nigerians took to social media platforms, especially X (formerly known as Twitter), to express concerns about his lack of work experience. Critics pointed out that Imam had only completed his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in August 2022, raising doubts about his readiness for such a high-ranking government position as chairman of FERMA.

The situation echoed a similar incident involving Maryam Shetty, whose ministerial appointment was withdrawn just hours before her scheduled Senate screening. GWG.ng reports that Shetty, hailing from Kano State, had already arrived at the Senate and was awaiting her screening when news of the withdrawal broke, causing immense embarrassment.

President Tinubu’s decision to order th withdrawal was hailed by presidential aide, Bayo Onanuga who saw it as reflective of a listening president.

He posted thus on X:

The Northerners’ reaction to Imam’s withdrawal as FERMA chairman was swift and forceful. Many took to Twitter to voice their discontent, expressing frustration with what they perceive as arbitrary decision-making within the government. User llike @Faisal questioned the consistency in the withdrawal of Northern nominees.

Some users, like @Eng Abdulaziz, empathized with Imam, highlighting the emotional toll of having an appointment abruptly revoked after receiving congratulatory messages from well-wishers.

@Nupe_Prince raised concerns about the administration’s decision-making processes, referencing past withdrawals, including that of Mal. Elrufai, and questioned President Tinubu’s ability to address significant issues facing the nation.

@Mfaarees expressed frustration over what he perceives as the President’s selective responsiveness, suggesting a lack of attention to critical issues like security and economic challenges.

The sentiment among many Northerners seemed to be a mix of disappointment, confusion, and frustration over the handling of these nominations, raising broader questions about the decision-making authority within the current administration.

As the controversy continues to unfold, Nigerians eagerly await further explanations from the government, hoping for clarity and transparency regarding future appointments and the criteria used to evaluate candidates for key positions in the nation’s administration.

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