President Goodluck Jonathan has sacked the Minister of Aviation, Stella oduah after several months of controversy over her role in the purchase of two bullet-proof
vehicles worth N255 million naira.

Three other ministers were also axed by the president. They include the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Godsday Orubebe, Minister of Police Affairs, Caleb Olubolade and the Minister of state for Finance, Dr Yerima Ngama.

Their sack was however communicated as resignation, according to sources who say no reason was actually given for their resignations.

Calls for Oduah’s resignation has been rife since the news of the bullet-proof cars scandal broke, but she had remained in office until SaharaReporters dropped another bombshell, relating its discovery that the former Aviation Minister did not earn a Masters degree she claimed to have received from a US college.

While other ministers’ resignation may have something to do with their political ambitions, it is unlikely that Oduah, who had generated a widespread ‘hatred’ from the masses as she remained in office despite being indicted in corrupt practices, would seek a political office. But then, nothing is impossible in Nigeria, Oduah may be eyeing a Senatorial seat in Anambra, her state.

Speaking to journalists after the Federal Executive Council Meeting, Information Minister Labaran Maku said the president had asked the ministers to vacate their positions to allow them pursue political and private business interests they had indicated.

According to Maku, pending the appointment of substantive ministers, the Minister of State for FCT, Olajumoke Akinjide will supervise the Ministry of Police Affairs, while the Minister of State for Trade and Investment, Sam Ortom will be in charge of the aviation ministry.

Minister of State for Niger Delta Affairs, Gayius Isiaku, would supervise the ministry, while the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala would be in charge of her office and that of the Minister of State for Finance.

Post a Comment

Thanks for Reading... Drop your Comment here.

 
Top