Some 58 Senators under the umbrella of the Northern Senators Forum have resolved to intervene in the planned relocation of key units of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to Lagos by the Federal Government, and the alleged lop-sidedness in the distribution and allocation of resources in the 2024 budget.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the senators decried that the move had sparked a wave of anxiety and outcry from northerners who would be most adversely affected by the spontaneous exercise.
However, they called for patience among their constituents and resolved to explore avenues for dialogue, engage in peaceful negotiations with the executive arm of government, and deploy legal measures where necessary.
The CBN in an internal memo last week announced plans to transfer some of its departments to Lagos on the ground that its headquarters in Abuja is congested with staff.
Similarly, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo also announced the relocation of the FAAN headquarters from Abuja to Lagos.The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and such Northern groups have said the relocation was adverse to the interest of the North.
In a statement on Monday signed by its spokesperson, Suleiman Kawu Sumaila, a Senator representing Kano-South Senatorial District, the senators assured constituents of their commitment to resolving the issues and engaging with the Executive, the leadership of the Senate and the relevant stakeholders.
The statement said: “As representatives of the people at the national level (Senate), we are committed to addressing the concerns and feelings of our constituents regarding certain decisions and policies put forth by the Federal Government – lop-sidedness in the distribution and allocation of resources in the 2024 budget, relocation of some federal agencies from Abuja to Lagos.
“First and foremost, let us assure our constituents that we have taken their concerns seriously and are actively engaging with our colleagues to address these matters effectively. We firmly believe in the power of open dialogue and collaboration to bring about positive change for our nation.
“We understand the importance of fostering a harmonious relationship between the government and its citizens, and it is in this spirit that we are announcing our collective efforts to seek an amicable resolution to these pressing issues, within the confines of our constitution and existing laws.
“We urge our constituents to remain patient as we diligently explore avenues for dialogues, engage in peaceful negotiations, and deploy legal measures where necessary. Rest assured, our actions align with the constitutional framework and the laws of the land, as we endeavour to uphold justice and fairness.”
