President Bola Tinubu has withdrawn the appointment of Obinna Oriaku as Abia State’s representative on the Federal Character Commission (FCC).
No explanation was provided for the withdrawal.
The request for the confirmation of Ikeji as a replacement was sent to the Senate and read during Thursday’s plenary by the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
According to the president’s letter, the nomination was made in line with Section 154 (1) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended.
Tinubu urged the Senate to consider and approve Ikeji’s appointment to the commission.
The Senate subsequently referred the letter to the committee on federal character and inter-governmental relations, instructing the committee to review the nomination and submit its findings within one week.
Oriaku, a former Abia commissioner for finance, had already completed his Senate confirmation before his appointment was withdrawn.
He said he was neither notified nor consulted about the development and was surprised to discover that his name had been substituted.
He noted that the situation serves as a reminder that speaking honestly, promoting fairness, and challenging entrenched interests in public office can come with personal consequences.
Oriaku added that a petition from a state agency or government body may have played a role in the decision.
Despite being replaced, Oriaku said he remains dedicated to advocating for good governance and contributing to discussions on issues affecting Abia State.
He acknowledged that appointments are subject to the President’s discretion and said he respects the decision, while maintaining his commitment to matters of public interest.
