The Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy has firmly stated that she did not engage in any unlawful activities by accepting a ministerial appointment while undergoing the mandatory one-year National Youth Service Corps (NYSC). This declaration comes amidst significant controversy after the Human Rights Writers Association (HURIWA) raised concerns about Musawa’s service in Abuja.Emeka Megwa, the Director of Press and Public Relations for the NYSC, previously indicated that holding a ministerial position during her service year constituted a violation of the NYSC Act. In an interview with Daily Trust, Megwa clarified that it is against the NYSC Act for any corps member to accept a government appointment before completing their one-year service.
Megwa elaborated that Mrs. Musawa was initially mobilized in 2001 for youth service in Ebonyi State, where she completed her orientation program. However, she later relocated to Kaduna State to continue her service. This relocation has been a point of contention in the ongoing discussions.
According to Megwa, it was during her time in Kaduna that she absconded and failed to complete the program. This allegation has fueled the debate surrounding her appointment and the legality of her actions during her service year.
Despite these claims, Musawa defended herself during an appearance on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics. She maintained that she did not violate any laws and asserted that she had completed two years of national youth service throughout her life.
“There have been many different accounts of that particular situation,” Musawa stated. “The fact that I’m seated here should tell you that I did not do anything wrong.” Her insistence on her innocence suggests a strong conviction regarding her compliance with the law.
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Musawa expressed her reluctance to clarify the details of the situation, stating, “I have not come out to set the records straight as to what really happened. The social media has just run rife with different accounts.” This acknowledgment of misinformation highlights the challenges public figures face in managing narratives.
She further mentioned that the matter has been adjudicated, indicating that there has been some form of resolution or legal review. Musawa hinted at the possibility of sharing her own account in the future, emphasizing her desire to provide clarity on the issue.
“I did not break the law. I did NYSC and finished,” she asserted. Musawa expressed confidence that her actions were in full accordance with the law and regulations governing the NYSC.
In response to inquiries about whether she was concerned about the President’s view on the matter, Musawa remained steadfast in her position, reiterating her belief in her lawful conduct throughout her service and ministerial tenure.
