NBA Section on Public Interest’s Request:
The Nigerian Bar Association Section on Public Interest and Development Law has officially requested the court to remove Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, from office.
This request is based on allegations that Musawa has violated the National Youth Service Corps Act.
Call for NYSC Certificate Nullification:
In addition to seeking Musawa’s removal, the organization is urging the court to compel the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) to invalidate the certificates awarded to both Musawa and music promoter Kenny Ogungbe.
The claim is that issuing these certificates contradicts the provisions outlined in the NYSC Act Cap N84.LFN 2024.
Plaintiffs and Defendants in the Legal Battle:
The plaintiffs in the suit, marked FCH/ABJ/05/90/2024, include John Aikpokpo-Martins, Chairman of NBA-SPIDEL, and Funmi Adeogun, Secretary of NBA-SPIDEL.
The defendants named in the suit are Hannatu Musawa, Kenny Ogungbe, the NYSC, and the Federal Government of Nigeria, listed as the first to fourth defendants, respectively.
Unlawful Mobilization Allegations:
The plaintiffs allege that the mobilization of Musawa and Ogungbe for the mandatory one-year national youth service after surpassing the age of 30 was unlawful, illegal, and contrary to patriotism.
They further claim that Musawa and Ogungbe’s purported national service, along with the certificates of service issued by the NYSC, are null and void.
Legal Declarations Sought:
The plaintiffs are seeking legal declarations, including a declaration that Musawa and Ogungbe are not entitled to be engaged as employees by any employer of labor or services without first possessing and presenting their certificates of National Youth Service.
Additionally, they seek a declaration that Musawa is not entitled to continue holding public office after violating the provisions of the NYSC Act.
Historical Context and Previous Accusations:
In August 2023, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria accused Musawa of serving as a minister while simultaneously undertaking the one-year mandatory National Youth Service Corps scheme.
Similarly, in October 2023, a social media uproar occurred when Ogungbe shared a photo of himself wearing the NYSC uniform, announcing that he had completed NYSC at the age of 53.
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