Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, has addressed the controversy surrounding her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) certificate, asserting that she acted within the law.
Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Sunday, Musawa maintained that she did not violate any legal provisions in relation to her NYSC participation.
“I didn’t break the law,” Musawa said in response to ongoing questions about her NYSC certificate, a matter that drew attention during her Senate confirmation screening earlier this year.
The controversy arose when critics questioned her failure to provide evidence of completing the mandatory NYSC scheme. However, in April 2024, a Federal High Court in Abuja dismissed the case against her, with Justice James Omotosho ruling that the plaintiffs lacked the legal standing to challenge her on the issue.
Speaking about the court ruling, Musawa emphasized that the matter has been legally settled and expressed her intent to focus on her ministerial responsibilities rather than the controversy.
“The matter had been adjudicated, and one day, I will come out with my account. I have probably done more NYSC than you (presenter). I have done at least two NYSCs in my life,” she stated.
Musawa reaffirmed her commitment to transparency, saying, “I think what I owe Nigerians is to say that I didn’t do anything wrong. I didn’t break the law. The NYSC I did and finished. That is the much I can tell you. Everything I did was by the law.”
She added that while she plans to provide further clarification in the future, her current priority is to focus on delivering on her mandate as Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy.
