The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has explained why the Senate approved Dr. Bosun Tijani’s appointment as Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, despite his past criticisms of Nigerian lawmakers, including referring to them as “morons.”
Akpabio revealed that Tijani’s Senate screening was tense due to his previous remarks, but lawmakers ultimately decided to confirm him, trusting President Bola Tinubu’s judgment.
Speaking on Saturday night at a special Iftar at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa to celebrate President Tinubu’s 73rd birthday, Akpabio detailed how senators initially resisted Tijani’s confirmation.
According to a statement released by Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Akpabio recounted that a senator had presented evidence of Tijani’s past derogatory comments about lawmakers during the screening process.
“When he came to the Senate for screening, some senators objected,” Akpabio said. “One senator even quoted from the internet, showing where Tijani had referred to all Nigerian senators as ‘morons.’”
Akpabio recalled questioning Tijani directly, asking, “Did you write this?” to which the minister admitted, “Sir, I did, because that was how I felt at the time.” Akpabio then asked, “And you have the audacity to stand before us and expect us to confirm you?”
Despite initial resistance, Akpabio explained that senators ultimately approved Tijani’s appointment out of confidence in Tinubu’s leadership.
“Mr. President, we confirmed him because we believed you must have seen something special in him. Your judgment of people is never wrong,” Akpabio said.
Following a closed-door session, the Senate decided to give Tijani an opportunity. Akpabio added, “Today, I am happy to say that he is one of the best-performing ministers in the cabinet.”
Tinubu Defends Tijani’s Appointment
During the Iftar event, President Tinubu acknowledged that his decision to appoint Tijani faced opposition from close associates, who cited his past criticisms on social media.
However, Tinubu defended his choice, stating that a person’s criticism should not overshadow their talents and potential contributions.
“Because he criticizes me does not mean he has nothing to offer,” Tinubu said.
He further explained that Tijani’s past frustrations could serve as motivation for better governance.
“When I picked him, it was tough. My close confidantes, who had read his comments, objected and said, ‘No, never.’
“But I said, ‘Yes, he is talented. Just because he criticized me and the parliament does not mean he lacks value. Perhaps his past frustrations will push him to contribute more to governance. And today, I am proud of him.’”
In response, Tijani expressed his gratitude for the opportunity, admitting he had expected to face severe scolding, but the president showed him kindness by giving him “the opportunity to represent your country and contribute to making it a better place.”
“I was expecting a proper scolding because of my records, but the magnanimity of the President is one that I experienced for the very first time in my life,” Tijani said.
He also disclosed that during a prior meeting, some individuals questioned his record, but the President shut them up.
