…urges proper verification of facts before publishing
By Nkechi Eze
Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) has clarified issues surrounding the re-appointment of Professor Abdullahi Mustapha as the Director General of the National Biotechnology Development Agency (NABDA), dismissing media reports that suggested the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) distanced himself from the appointment.
Segun Imohioson, the Director of Information, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), said reports quoting him as having disassociated the SGF from the re-appointment were based on a gross misrepresentation. According to him, he never granted any interview to any media outlet on the matter.
“At no time did I speak to any reporter or say that the SGF was not aware of the re-appointment of Professor Abdullahi Mustapha. That report is false and misleading,” he stated.
According to him, a message was reportedly sent to him regarding protests over appointments and was shown to the SGF’s Personal Assistant, who simply clarified that the SGF does not have the constitutional mandate to appoint anyone. “Appointments are solely at the discretion of the President,” he explained.
Segun Imohioson, emphasized that the SGF only acts on directives from the President, stressing that the Cabinet Secretariat, which he represents, processes documents but does not originate appointments.
Clarifying the tenure of Professor Abdullahi Mustapha, he said the DG was re-appointed for a second term of five years starting from March 7, 2025, following recommendations reportedly initiated by his supervising minister and approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Prof. Abdullahi has been duly appointed and there is nothing illegal about his tenure. His re-appointment followed due process, and he is expected to serve until November 2029,” he added.
Segun Imohioson acknowledged that opposition from interest groups is not unusual in public service, but insisted that such dissent does not invalidate a presidential appointment.
He urged media practitioners and stakeholders to verify facts before publication, noting that it is crucial in maintaining the integrity and credibility of journalism, as well as ensuring that the public is duly and accurately informed, rather than contribute to the spread of misinformation.
