The Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), National Assembly Chapter, has called on the National Assembly Service Commission (NASC) to adhere to the Federal Character principle in the appointment of secretaries within the National Assembly, warning that continued violations could trigger industrial unrest.
In a formal notice dated December 22, 2025, and addressed to the Chairman of the National Assembly Service Commission at its headquarters on TOS Benson Crescent, Utako, Abuja, PASAN drew attention to Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), as well as the provisions of the Federal Character Commission Act, Cap F7, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2024.
The association noted that these legal instruments mandate equitable representation of Nigeria’s federating units in public service appointments.
According to PASAN, compliance with the Federal Character principle is essential to ensuring fairness, national cohesion, and confidence in public institutions.
“Respecting this principle in appointments is crucial to maintaining fairness and avoiding perceptions of bias,” the union stated, urging the Commission to ensure full compliance in order to “prevent potential industrial unrest.”
The association also referenced recent actions by President Bola Tinubu, particularly his decision to reverse the promotion of his Aide-de-Camp (ADC), describing it as a demonstration of commitment to fairness, integrity, and the rule of law.
“This exemplary leadership demonstrates that no one is above the rules and promotes a culture of accountability and transparency,” PASAN said, adding that the National Assembly Service Commission should follow this precedent by ensuring that its decisions reflect equity and good governance.
PASAN further expressed concern over what it described as a recurring practice in which states already represented in the secretary cadre are appointed again to fill vacancies, while other states within the same geopolitical zone are excluded.
The union warned that such practices contradict the spirit and letter of the Federal Character principle and undermine equitable representation across the federation.
“We note with concern instances where a state already represented in the secretary cadre is appointed to fill a vacancy, while other states in the same zone are denied the opportunity,” the notice read.
PASAN stressed that failure to address these imbalances could deepen perceptions of marginalisation among staff and weaken trust in the appointment process.
The association, led by its Chairman, Sabiyyi Sunday, expressed confidence that the Commission would take “immediate action” to correct the identified lapses and reaffirm its commitment to constitutional provisions and national unity.
However, the National Assembly Service Commission has yet to respond to the concerns raised by PASAN as of the time of press.
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