In a recent appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Hannatu Musawa, the Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, directly addressed the heated controversy surrounding her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate, asserting her innocence and legal standing. The controversy has lingered since her nomination for ministerial office, with critics questioning her eligibility due to an alleged failure to present valid evidence of her NYSC participation during her Senate screening. However, Musawa remains resolute in her defense, stating, “I didn’t break the law,” emphasizing her commitment to upholding legal procedures.
The Controversy Unfolds
The issue surrounding Musawa’s NYSC certificate first gained prominence when it was brought up during her Senate confirmation hearing. Critics were quick to point out that the minister had not satisfactorily provided proof of her completion of the mandatory national service, a requirement for Nigerians under the age of 30 seeking public office or employment in government service. Her failure to address this during the screening sparked a series of accusations, leading to calls for her disqualification.
In the face of public scrutiny, Musawa stood firm, insisting that she had indeed fulfilled her NYSC obligations. She chose not to engage in the public back-and-forth, instead allowing the legal process to take its course.
Legal Victory: Court Rules in Her Favor
In April 2024, Musawa’s legal battles came to a significant turning point when a Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed the case filed against her regarding the NYSC controversy. The presiding judge, Justice James Omotosho, ruled that the plaintiffs lacked the legal standing to bring the matter before the court. This ruling was a key moment for Musawa, who has since declared that the matter is now settled, at least from a legal standpoint.
Musawa highlighted that the court’s decision should put the issue to rest. She affirmed her belief that the ruling exonerated her, as the legal system found no wrongdoing on her part. Speaking on the ruling, Musawa confidently stated, “The matter had been adjudicated, and one day, I will come out with my full account. I have probably done more NYSC than most people. In fact, I have completed at least two NYSC programs in my life.”
A Minister’s Resolve
While many would use such a controversy as a point of distraction, Musawa has made it clear that her focus remains on her ministerial responsibilities. She expressed her commitment to moving forward, stating that she prefers to concentrate on fulfilling her duties to Nigerians rather than allowing herself to be drawn into prolonged public debates over her NYSC credentials.
“What I owe Nigerians is to assure them that I didn’t do anything wrong. I didn’t break the law. I completed the NYSC program, and I followed every legal process required of me. That is the much I can tell you right now,” she said.
Musawa also indicated that, while she intends to eventually provide a detailed explanation of the entire situation to clarify any remaining doubts, her immediate priority is delivering on the expectations of her role in government. “One day, I will come out with my account of what happened to set the record straight,” she remarked. “But for now, I think it is important for me to focus on giving Nigerians the deliverables.”
Looking Ahead
Despite the distractions, Musawa remains committed to her role as the Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, a portfolio that comes with its own set of challenges and expectations. She has expressed her dedication to driving the country’s cultural agenda forward, seeking to enhance Nigeria’s creative industries, and promoting the rich artistic heritage of the nation.
For now, the minister is determined to push forward, leaving the controversy behind and focusing on the task at hand. Whether or not the public fully accepts her account, Musawa’s legal victory marks a significant turning point in the NYSC saga. Time will tell how this chapter of her political career unfolds, but for the moment, Hannatu Musawa appears resolute, emboldened by her court win and ready to continue her work without distraction.
Her message is clear: “I didn’t break the law.”
