A source in the National Youth Service Corps headquarters has shed light on the controversy trailing the appointment of the Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, over her alleged non-adherence to the codes of the NYSC as a serving member.
Mrs. Musawa has faced several backlashes from Nigerians over her recent ministerial appointment because she is still a serving corps member. Many calling for the withdrawal of the appointment, including popular human rights activist, Femi Falana SAN.
However, the source, who spoke anonymously to Vanguard, said no specific provisions prohibit a serving corps member from assuming a ministerial or commissioner position.
Rather engaging in partisan politics or affiliating with a political party during the service year was strictly forbidden.
According to the source, NYSC aimed to maintain neutrality and non-partisanship during the programme.
The source said, “Based on the NYSC Act and its accompanying bye-laws governing the operations and regulations of the scheme, there are no specific provisions that prohibit a serving corps member from being appointed as a minister or commissioner.
“However, it is important to note that the appointment of ministers or commissioners is typically a political process that involves considerations such as political affiliations.
“According to the NYSC bye-laws, corps members are prohibited from engaging in partisan politics or joining any political party during the service year.
“The aim of this restriction is to maintain the neutrality and non-partisanship of the NYSC programme.
“Corps members are expected to focus on their primary assignments, which involve community development, education, healthcare, and other areas of national service.”
