Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South under the All Progressives Congress (APC), has raised serious concerns over the pattern of federal appointments made by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News Prime Time, which was monitored by a correspondent, Ndume said he was deeply worried that the list of appointees circulating on social media suggests a clear imbalance in how positions have been shared across Nigeria’s diverse regions.
Ndume noted that many appointments appear to favor a particular region, rather than reflecting the national character as required by Section 14(3) of the Nigerian Constitution. This section clearly states that appointments should promote national unity and prevent any dominance of persons from a few states or ethnic groups.
“It is not that I am making accusations or saying that Mr President does not have the right to make appointments, but Section 14/3 of the Constitution is very clear. When you look at it vis-à-vis the appointments made so far, they are political appointments,” Ndume said.
He added that while some positions, such as the Chief of Army Staff or Inspector General of Police, require professionals with specific qualifications, political appointments must take into account the country’s ethnic and regional balance. Ndume, who is known for his bold stance on national issues, stated that this imbalance does not align with Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which promised inclusion and fairness.
“All I am saying is to call the attention of Mr President to such infractions so that they can be corrected; otherwise, this thing can boomerang at a certain period of time,” he said.
Ndume also addressed those who may view his comments as criticism. “It is not personal, because if you count five people in the North that have a personal relationship with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, I (Ndume) am one of them. But that does not stop me from saying the truth,” he explained.
He noted that his duty as a lawmaker includes checking the executive and pointing out any areas of concern. Ndume warned that instead of focusing on his message, supporters of the President may wrongly choose to attack him personally.
“It is unfortunate that after this interaction, these so-called Tinubu Boys or people will start attacking Ndume, saying he is a very frustrating person,” he added.
