The Northern Senators Forum (NSF) has condemned the relocation of some departments of the Central Bank of Nigeria and the headquarters of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) from Abuja to Lagos State.
The senators called on the federal government to consider reverting the relocated departments or be ready to face legal action.
NSF spokesperson Suleiman Kawu made the call in a statement Monday.
The CBN, in an internal memo last week, announced plans to transfer some of its departments to Lagos because its headquarters in Abuja is overcrowded with staff.
Likewise, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also announced the relocation of the FAAN headquarters from Abuja to Lagos.
Kawu, a member of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), which represents Kano South in the upper house, explained that northerners are not happy with the relocation of the two federal government agencies to Lagos.
He said northern senators have started collaborating with their colleagues from other geopolitical zones to ensure that the relocated departments in the two federal agencies are moved to Abuja.
The senator urged the aggrieved northerners to be patient with the inconveniences they might have faced due to the relocation of the agencies to Lagos.
“First, let us assure our constituents that we have taken their concerns seriously and are actively collaborating with our colleagues to address these issues effectively. We firmly believe in the power of open dialogue and collaboration to achieve positive change for our nation.
“We urge our constituents to be patient as we diligently explore avenues for dialogue, engage in peaceful negotiations, and implement legal measures where necessary.
“Rest assured that our actions align with the constitutional framework and the laws of the country, as we strive to uphold justice and equity,” he said.
Kawu said members of the forum will discuss with the federal government, Senate leadership and other relevant stakeholders to ensure that the offices return to Abuja.
“We believe that through effective communication, mutual respect and a shared vision, we can forge a path that leads to positive change. We will engage the executive branch of government and Senate leadership and relevant stakeholders to actively listen to the concerns of Nigerians and provide updates on our progress.
“We encourage everyone to participate in these communication channels, ensuring their voices are heard and their perspectives valued.
“In conclusion, we, as representatives of the people, are fully committed to resolving the pressing issues before us. We ask for your continued support, trust and patience as we work to achieve positive results for our constituents and uphold the values enshrined in our Constitution.”
This is the second time a Northern group will condemn the relocation of the two federal government agencies since it became public.
The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) had earlier condemned the move of the offices, stating that it was a matter of further underdeveloping the northern part of the country.