AT a time doubts were rising and hopes receding as to the timely
appointment of Federal Ministers by President Muhammadu Buhari, the list
of the Ministers emerged from the President to the amazement of
sceptics and others. There was amazement, not so much because the
ministerial list took so long in coming but more so, because of novel
way in which portfolios were assigned.
Babatunde Raji Fashola, the immediate past Governor of Lagos State,
was appointed the Minister of Power, Works and Housing, a position that
was hitherto occupied by three ministers. Till this day, opinions are
divided over this appointment. On the one side, is the group that says
that the responsibilities that go with the portfolios will overwhelm
him. They argue further that this may end up damaging his cherished
reputation. On the other side is the group that believes the as- signed
portfolios is an open endorsement and confidence in his ability by the
President.
