The Federal Capital Territory has asked the media and the general public not to address Olusade Adesola, the Permanent Secretary of the FCT Administration, as the Acting Minister.
The FCTA made the clarification in response to media reports appointing the Permanent Secretary as Acting Minister.
According to a statement signed by FCTA Chief Press Secretary Anthony Ogunleye on Saturday, there is no such provision in the Nigerian Constitution or civil service rules.
While acknowledging that the recent power transition and the absence of a minister may have contributed to the confusion, Ogunleye stated that the administration was committed to the principles of accountability and sincerity and urged members of the public and the media to do the same.
The statement reads as follows “The FCTA wishes to address recent speculations and misconceptions regarding the designation of the Federal Capital Territory Administration’s Permanent Secretary, Mr Olusade Adesola, as the Acting Minister of the FCT by some mass media outlets, and members of the public.
“We hereby clarify that there is no provision either in the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or civil service rules for such a position, and therefore, the FCTA Permanent Secretary cannot be addressed as the Acting Minister of the FCT.
“We understand that the recent political transition and absence of a Minister at present may have led to confusion regarding this matter. However, it is essential to rely on the established legal framework and adhere to the prescribed protocols.
“The FCTA is committed to upholding the principles of transparency, accountability & adherence to constitutional provisions. The general public & the mass media are enjoined to kindly take note & comply accordingly.”