By Fatima Saka
The Nigerian Senate has issued a stern warning to Galaxy Backbone Limited, threatening to issue a warrant of arrest against the agency for repeatedly ignoring invitations to appear before the Senate Committee on Federal Character and Intergovernmental Affairs.
The committee is investigating allegations of non-compliance with the Federal Character Principle in the agency’s recruitment processes.
The Senate reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the Federal Character Principle, which ensures equitable representation in employment across all government institutions.
The warning followed a motion presented by Senator Garba Madoiki during a public hearing on Thursday, titled “Equal Opportunities for All.” The motion, approved by the Chairman of the Committee, Senator Allwell Onyesoh (Rivers East/PDP), highlighted Galaxy Backbone Limited’s persistent refusal to honor the committee’s summons.
Senator Madoiki expressed frustration over the agency’s repeated excuses and disregard for the Senate’s authority.
He noted: “Each time we invite them, they ignore us. They send the same response with a new date, only to fail to appear again. This behavior is unacceptable and reflects a lack of respect for the National Assembly.”
The public hearing focused on assessing Galaxy Backbone Limited’s recruitment activities and its adherence to the Federal Character Principle under the supervision of the Federal Character Commission. The agency operates under the Federal Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy.
Lawmakers raised concerns about allegations that Galaxy Backbone Limited had failed to uphold equitable representation in its employment practices. The committee also questioned whether the Federal Character Commission had issued waivers or certificates of compliance that allowed the agency to bypass constitutional requirements.
Responding to these allegations, the Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission, Dr. Muheeba Farida Dankaka, denied issuing any certificates of compliance to the agency. She requested additional time to review the commission’s records and provide a comprehensive report.
Senator Onyesoh criticized Galaxy Backbone Limited for ignoring four consecutive invitations to the committee, describing this as a blatant show of disrespect for the National Assembly’s authority. He warned that such behavior would no longer be tolerated.
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“This is not just about compliance with the Federal Character Principle; it’s about respecting the rule of law and the authority of the Senate,” Onyesoh stated.
The committee resolved to adjourn the hearing, giving the Federal Character Commission more time to prepare its report. It also directed the Clerk to reissue invitations to all relevant parties. The committee warned Galaxy Backbone Limited that failure to appear at the next hearing would result in the issuance of a warrant of arrest against its management.
Distinct News report that the Senate’s actions underscore its determination to uphold constitutional principles, promote fairness in government employment practices, and address perceived impunity. The committee’s stance reflects the importance of transparency, equity, and accountability in the public sector.
