By Muhammad Mamman
The Nigerian Senate has suspended the confirmation of Dr Kingsley Udeh as a minister, citing unresolved issues surrounding his nomination and screening process.
During Tuesday’s plenary session, several senators reportedly raised questions about Udeh’s credentials and the circumstances surrounding his nomination. The matter sparked heated debate on the Senate floor, prompting the leadership to step down his confirmation pending further clarification from the relevant committees.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the session, announced that Udeh’s name would be withheld from the final list of confirmed ministers until the identified concerns were fully addressed. He stressed that the Senate would not compromise on transparency, integrity, and due diligence in the appointment of ministers who will form part of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet.
Sources within the National Assembly told reporters that the red chamber is seeking more information from security agencies and other background-check institutions regarding Udeh’s record and eligibility.
Meanwhile, other nominees were successfully screened and confirmed, bringing the total number of approved ministers closer to completion.
The suspension of Udeh’s confirmation has generated mixed reactions among political observers, with some describing it as a necessary step to ensure accountability, while others see it as part of the ongoing power tussle between the executive and the legislature.
