The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has called on the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to either reinstate the suspended Executive Secretary of the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), Engr. Shehu Ahmad Hadi, or provide a clear explanation for his removal.
In a statement by its Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola, MURIC expressed concerns over the suspension, which was announced by Wike on November 14, 2024, without any stated reason.
The minister subsequently appointed Richard Yunana, FCDA’s Director of Engineering Services, as acting executive secretary.
Akintola highlighted that five weeks have passed without an explanation, sparking speculation and raising questions about the decision.
He noted that Hadi has an impressive professional track record, including serving as the Commissioner for Works in Gombe State, and maintains an unblemished record in public service.
“Suspending an official without citing reasons or following due process is inconsistent with public service standards,” Akintola said.
“The principle of fair hearing requires that Hadi be informed of the allegations against him and be given a chance to defend himself. Silence on such matters reflects traits of impunity.”
Akintola also criticized some of Wike’s actions since assuming office, describing them as arbitrary and potentially harmful.
He pointed to the demolition of properties on short notice, the dismissal of FCT officials, and the appointment of replacements reportedly from the minister’s ethnic group as questionable practices lacking transparency and fairness.
“A technocrat like Engr. Shehu Ahmad Hadi, who contributed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s emergence as president, deserves better treatment,” Akintola concluded.
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