The Senate has confirmed Kingsley Ude SAN from Enugu State as a member of President Bola Tinubu’s cabinet following his screening on Thursday.
Ude formerly served as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Enugu State. During the screening lawmakers questioned him on national and international matters.
Senator Abdul Ningi asked for his views on the ongoing dispute involving former US President Donald Trump and his threat toward Nigeria. The inquiry briefly stirred reactions among some lawmakers who argued that Ude had already demonstrated competence and did not require further questioning.
Responding Ude said President Tinubu was managing the situation diplomatically and noted that it was primarily a diplomatic issue rather than a legal one.
Senator Adamu Aliero also asked whether the offices of Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice should be separated. Ude replied that the effectiveness of the office depends on the occupant and whether they remain independent rather than influenced by political pressure.
After his responses the Senate asked Ude to take a bow. He was then confirmed as a minister.
Ude replaces Uche Nnaji who resigned weeks earlier as Minister of Innovation Science and Technology amid a certificate controversy.
