Why Buhari Suspended Hadiza Usman As NPA Boss –Presidency

President Muhammadu Buhari approved the suspension of the Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Ms. Hadiza Bala-Usman, to allow for investigation into allegations against her.

This was disclosed Thursday night by presidential spokesperson, Mallam Garba Shehu.

According to Shehu, President Buhari approved the recommendation of the Ministry of Transportation under Mr. Rotimi Amaechi for the setting up of an Administrative Panel of Inquiry to investigate the Management of the NPA.

Hadiza, an ally of Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, was first appointed as the NPA MD in 2016.

Her tenure was renewed for another five years in January this year.

Shehu did not disclose details of the allegations against Hadiza but said the President approved that Hadiza should step aside for Mr Mohammed Koko to act in that position while the investigation is carried out.

Until his appointment, Koko was the Executive Director, Finance in NPA.

Meanwhile, the Administrative Panel of Inquiry is to be headed by the Director, Maritime Services of the Ministry while the Deputy Director, Legal of the same ministry will serve as Secretary.

Other members of the panel will be appointed by the Minister.