Ijaw People Development Initiative (IPDI) and National Association of Izon Ebe Students, have collectively criticised President Muhammadu Buhari’s decision to be the minister of petroleum.
Leaders of the groups, Austin Ozobo and Ebi Wayas, said in a joint statement, that there is no provision in the law for Buhari to assume the office of Minister of Petroleum.
“By virtue of Section 138 of the Nigeria Constitution of 1999 as amended, the president shall not during the tenure of his office hold any other executive or paid emolument in any capacity whatsoever.”
“This provision is indisputably clear , Buhari is taking us back to the days of the military rule, obviously he lacks the power to assume the position of petroleum minister as serving president.
“It is an act of lawlessness and the constitution prohibits a public officer assuming two political offices and earning double salaries, the president inclusive.”
“The president should resign as president and subject himself to screening by the Senate if he wants to be petroleum minister.”
“However, we advise him on the implication and negative impression his resolve to occupy two offices may create on his unpopular change agenda.”
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