Ministerial Nominee: Sen. Ekong clarifies ‘bow and go’ practice in the Senate

Senator Sampson Akpan Ekong representing Akwa Ibom South Senatorial District in the 10th Senate clarified that the practice of ‘bow and go’ during the screening of President Bola Tinubu’s ministerial nominees is a parliamentary procedure and not an indication of confirmation. 

Speaking to journalists after the screening of several nominees, including Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-rufai, Senator Ekong emphasized that the process is ongoing, and the nominees’ responses to questions are being considered. 

Senator Ekong emphasized that the nominees are Nigerians who have undergone rigorous testing as legislators, and their primary concern is the well-being of Nigeria. 

He stated that the screening process involves reviewing their CVs, remarks, and mindset, as well as interacting with them and assessing their responses to questions. 

Regarding the petitions against Mallam Nasir Ahmad El-rufai, the Akwa Ibom lawmaker clarified that they are merely allegations and will be addressed by the Senate at the appropriate time.

Senator Ekong further explained that the “bow and go” practice is a parliamentary procedure, where questions are asked to the nominees, and they respond accordingly. 

He highlighted that this procedure does not guarantee ministerial confirmation, as the process is still ongoing. As legislators, they meticulously examine the nominees’ qualifications and composure, ensuring a thorough assessment before making any decisions.

Additionally, the Kogi Senator presented a petition against Mallam Nasri El-Rufai, but other Senators opted for the “bow and go” tradition instead of posing questions. 

“Ministerial confirmation is not the purpose of this practice, as it solely serves as a screening process. The petitions against El-Rufai will be addressed by the Committee on Public Petitions as part of the screening procedure”, Ekong stated. 

A total of 8 out of 14 nominees of first batch who appeared before the Senate for the exercise were made to undergo the ritual of bow-and-go.