SGF Akume Allegedly Protects Ex-Chief Justice’s Son in Controversial Upper Benue Appointment

Akume faces backlash for allegedly securing a top position for Mahmud Mohammed, despite lacking required qualifications

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has allegedly been safeguarding Mahmud Sanusi Mohammed, the son of former Chief Justice of Nigeria Mahmud Mohammed, in his appointment as Managing Director of the Upper Benue River Basin Development Authority. Critics argue that SGF Akume protects Mahmud Mohammed by disregarding qualifications mandated by federal regulations, a move that has sparked significant controversy.

SaharaReporters had pointed out how President Bola Tinubu appointed Mahmud in early October 2024 through a letter signed by Akume. However, the choice quickly ignited criticism due to Mahmud’s background as a geography graduate, lacking the legally required engineering credentials for the role. Under the COREN Amendment Act of 2018, managing directors in positions such as this must hold engineering qualifications, a stipulation Mahmud does not meet. This legislative mandate has fueled concerns over whether SGF Akume protects Mahmud Mohammed’s appointment solely based on family connections.

According to SaharaReporters, Sources within the government disclosed that officials from the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation formally raised these issues with Minister Joseph Terlumun Utsev. Nonetheless, SGF Akume reportedly instructed Utsev to disregard these objections, reinforcing Mahmud’s position. The COREN Act states that individuals in such roles must be registered engineering practitioners, underscoring a critical qualification Mahmud lacks.

Despite opposition from high-ranking officials, SGF Akume allegedly maintains his support for Mahmud Mohammed’s appointment, citing the family ties to his father, the former Chief Justice. “Many senior officers within the ministry disagree with Mahmud’s appointment as he lacks the essential qualifications. Even the permanent secretary advised against it,” shared a source close to the matter.

In response to this endorsement from Akume, Mahmud appears unfazed by the legal and professional disqualifications surrounding his appointment. Confident in his position, he was seen attending a ministry workshop ahead of his official duties, signaling his firm belief in the SGF’s support.

Reports indicate that several officials within Tinubu’s administration privately express frustration over the controversy. However, their concerns have yet to reach the president, who is reportedly shielded from these developments by Akume’s influential stance.