Ministerial list: Fashola, Fayemi, others didn't pass DSS screening

As the Department of State Service, DSS, continues the screening of some ministerial nominees, indications emerged at the weekend that three immediate past governors, Babatunde Fashola, Rotimi Ameachi and Kayode Fayemi, have allegedly failed to pass the President’s anti-corruption test.

The trio worked hard for the former Head of State to emerge the All Progressives Congress, APC, presidential flag bearer as well as for him to get elected President and were seen as top contenders for positions in Buhari’s cabinet.

A highly placed security source at the weekend told Nigerian Pilot Sunday that the DSS did not clear three ministerial nominees, who are former governors, based on allegations of corruption brought against them before the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offenses Commission, ICPC.

According to the source, the security agency allegedly refused to clear the three former governors based on a series of petitions written against them over allegations bordering on money laundering, fraud and embezzlement.

The source further added that when the three affected former governors appeared before the DSS screening committee, they were confronted with the petitions and other relevant documents attached to the petitions.

The source further added that they have received instructions from the President that any of the nominees with any damaging and fraud related issues should not be cleared by the security agency.

The President had on Monday in Aburi, Ghana reassured Nigerians and the international community that he would name his cabinet before the end of the month.

A statement by the Special Adviser to the President, Media and Publicity, Mr. Femi Adesina, said Buhari gave the assurance to his audience at a joint press conference with President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana.

“After I was sworn in, I said I would have my cabinet in September. I expect that Nigerians should ask me questions after the 30th of September if I do not do so,” Buhari said while responding to a question on the appointment of ministers.