Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, former Special Adviser on Political Matters to President Bola Tinubu, has called on the National Assembly to conduct a thorough scrutiny of the latest ambassadorial nominees.

Speaking during an interview on Sunday, the political commentator noted that some of the nominees require deeper examination regarding their background, integrity, and past records.

“There are a few of these nominees that require more rigorous scrutiny in terms of their background, integrity, and records.

“I hope the President, having nominated them, will now allow the National Assembly to fulfil its constitutional role effectively. They must scrutinise these individuals thoroughly,” Baba-Ahmed said.

He emphasised that personal integrity must take precedence over politics, regional considerations, or ethnicity.

“I think a few of those names need thorough scrutiny. Allegations exist against some, which have not been disproved, and some have matters before the courts.

“This scrutiny will serve the national interest. It will also complement President Tinubu’s anti-corruption campaign and benefit the missions these individuals are being sent to,” he added.

Over the weekend, President Tinubu nominated 32 individuals as ambassadors. The list includes former Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, former minister Femi Fani-Kayode, and ex-presidential aide Reno Omokri.

Other nominees include former Abia State Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, former Lagos Deputy Governor Femi Pedro, Ondo businessman and senator Jimoh Ibrahim, former Ekiti First Lady Erelu Angela Adebayo, and former Adamawa Senator Grace Bent.

The President has forwarded all names to the Senate for confirmation.