Tinubu’s Appointment of Ex-Chief Justice Mahmud’s Son as Upper Benue River Basin Agency MD Sparks Controversy Over ‘Lack of Qualification’
The appointment of Mahmud Sanusi Mohammed as the Managing Director of the Upper Benue River Basin Development Authority has ignited widespread criticism.
President Bola Tinubu appointed Mahmud on October 3, 2024, through a letter signed by Sen. George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
The letter stated that Mahmud would serve in this role for an initial term of four years.
It was noted that his emoluments and other conditions of service would adhere to the “Certain Political, Public and Judicial Office Holders (Salaries and Allowances, etc) (Amendment) Act, 2008.”
Despite this formal appointment, there is growing unrest regarding Mahmud’s qualifications for the position.
Sources within the agency have revealed that Mahmud, who holds a degree in geography, does not meet the legal qualifications required for the job.
According to the COREN Amendment Act 2018, the Managing Director must possess relevant engineering qualifications.
The law states, “A person shall not hold an appointment requiring status as a registered engineering practitioner under this Act… unless he is an engineer registered under this Act.”
Mahmud’s academic credentials include a degree in geography, a postgraduate diploma in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing, and a master’s degree in disaster and risk management from Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) in Zaria.
However, critics argue that these qualifications do not suffice for the head of an agency responsible for crucial tasks such as water resource development and flood control.
“Mahmud studied geography and has never qualified to practice as an engineer,” said one source privy to the situation.
“He was appointed because of his father’s connections, not because he is fit for the role.”
This sentiment is echoed by others in the agency who believe Mahmud’s lack of relevant experience will hinder the agency’s effectiveness.
“His inexperience will impact the agency’s ability to deliver important services, especially now, as the country faces significant flooding issues,” a source said.
They pointed to the recent floods in Maiduguri as an example of the urgent need for competent leadership in water management.
Mahmud’s appointment has been seen as part of a troubling trend in Tinubu’s administration.
Just weeks ago, 24-year-old Imam Ibrahim Kashim Imam faced backlash after being appointed as the chairman of the Federal Roads Maintenance Agency.
Despite being a first-class graduate from Brighton University in the UK, critics argued that he lacked sufficient work experience.
Following the uproar, President Tinubu withdrew Imam’s appointment, raising questions about the vetting process for public positions.
“Those in government seem determined to undermine the integrity of important agencies,” a frustrated agency source lamented.
Another source claimed that Mahmud’s appointment was orchestrated by SGF Akume, due to their close relationship.
“The appointment of someone without the necessary qualifications raises serious concerns about the motivations behind it,” the source said.