By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

A Nigerian lawyer has written a petition to the Senate against the nomination and possible appointment of ex-Governors Bello Matawalle and Atiku Bagudu of Zamfara and Kebbi states respectively.

Barrister Osa Director, in his petition addressed to the Senate President, dated 3rd August, 2023, sighted by News Express on Sunday, August 6, said Matawalle and Bagudu are not fit and proper persons to be so appointed as a result of serious allegations of corruption against them and their lacklustre performance in office as Chief Executives of their respective States of Zamfara and Kebbi.

The petition reads: “As a taxpayer and Nigerian, I am interested in the political and economic direction of my country.

“As a journalist, I am enjoined by Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended) to “uphold the responsibility and accountability of the Government to the people”.

“Indeed, as a legal practitioner and minister in the temple of justice, I am also trained and professionally bound to promote the principles of fairness, equity and justice to all irrespective of creed, tribe and religion.

“Consequently, I should at all times contribute my own quota to the fight against corruption and corrupt practices, especially by public officers who were, and are entrusted by the good people of Nigeria to deliver on good governance and accelerated development.

“It is on these premises that I hereby write to you a petition against the nomination and possible appointment of ex-Governors Bello Matawalle and Atiku Bagudu of Zamfara and Kebbi states respectively. By virtue of Section 147 (2) of the Constitution, it is the prerogative of the Nigerian Senate to confirm the nominations of Ministers.

“However, patriotic and altruistic citizens should support and encourage the Senate to perform such an onerous responsibility.

“Matawalle was governor of Zamfara State between 2019 and May 2023. He lost his re-election bid due to his colourless and uninspiring performance.”

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