CSO Questions Alleged N4bn Office Rent, 50 Aides Appointed By Minister

The Coalition for Transparency, Equity, and Justice, a Civil Society Organisation (CSO) advocating for human rights, transparency, and accountability, has raised concerns over the activities of the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, led by Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa.

Citing the Freedom of Information Act (FOI), the coalition has called for an explanation regarding the alleged N4 billion set aside for office rent by the ministry. The FOI, passed in 2011, allows the public to request information from public institutions, government-controlled companies, and private entities that provide public services.

In a letter signed by Dr. Chima Chibuike, Executive Secretary of the Coalition, the group requested further details on the N3 billion allegedly paid to the landlord of the office property in instalments. It also questioned the minister’s alleged recommendation of 50 new aides, which they argue is excessive and unnecessary.

The coalition is seeking clarification on why the sum was allegedly paid without approval from the Federal Executive Council (FEC), as the rental amount exceeds the approval threshold. The CSO claimed the office in question is located along ICPC Road, Abuja, and the rent has reportedly been ongoing for a year and four months.

The coalition, which also expressed concerns about the alleged dismissal of experienced ministry officials, highlighted the appointment of Ahmed Sodangi, the 32-year-old Director-General (DG) of the National Gallery of Arts, as particularly controversial due to his alleged relationship with Minister Musawa.

“Sodangi, previously a level 9 staff member at the Bank of Industry, was appointed DG despite lacking relevant experience in the arts sector. It is instructive that the Bank of Industry, where Sodangi last worked before emerging as DG of NGA, sponsored major arts exhibitions in London and Nigeria, but that should not be a yardstick for his appointment,” the group said.

This is not the first time Minister Musawa has faced scrutiny, as she was also involved in a controversial issue regarding her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) participation.

In response to the latest allegations, Dr. Nneka Ikem-Anibeze, Special Assistant for Media and Publicity to the Minister, denied knowledge of any office rented by the ministry for N4 billion. She insisted, “The ministry operates from the Federal Secretariat, Abuja. We are located at the Federal Secretariat, Head of Service, First Floor. We have not rented any office for N4 billion.”

Regarding the appointment of Ahmed Sodangi as DG of the National Gallery of Arts, Ikem-Anibeze stated that she was unaware of any family connection between the minister and Sodangi. She also denied the alleged appointment of 50 aides.