The Senate has confirmed Dr. Kingsley Ude, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) from Enugu State, as a Minister of the Federal Republic following his screening on Thursday.
Born in 1978, Ude previously served as Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice in Enugu State. During his confirmation hearing, senators asked him questions on both national and international issues.
Senator Abdul Ningi queried Ude on the ongoing Trump-related threat and sought his perspective on possible solutions, prompting a brief debate in the chamber. Some lawmakers argued that Ude had already proven his competence for the ministerial role and did not require further questioning. Ude responded that President Bola Tinubu was addressing the matter diplomatically, framing it as a diplomatic rather than legal issue.
Senator Adamu Aliero asked for Ude’s views on separating the offices of the Attorney General of the Federation and the Minister of Justice. Ude replied that the effectiveness of the office depends on the individual’s integrity and resistance to political influence.
Satisfied with his responses, the Senate asked Ude to take a bow, after which he was formally confirmed as minister. Ude’s appointment follows the recent resignation of Uche Nnaji, former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, who left President Tinubu’s cabinet amid a certificate scandal.
