The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) is turning up the heat on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing his administration of favoring the South-West region in federal appointments and demanding a complete overhaul of the National Census Committee. Is this just political maneuvering, or are there legitimate concerns about fairness and national unity?
Key Takeaways
- NEF accuses Tinubu’s administration of lopsided appointments, favoring the South-West.
- Demand for immediate disbandment of the National Census Committee due to alleged irregularities.
- Warning that the current trend threatens Nigeria’s democratic fabric and national unity.
Northern Elders Draw a Battle Line
The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) isn’t holding back. They’re accusing President Tinubu of running a government that’s all about regional favoritism. According to them, since Tinubu took office in May 2023, things have been skewed towards the South-West, and they’re not happy about it.
Census Committee Under Scrutiny
One of the biggest bones of contention is the newly formed National Census Committee. NEF claims its mandate is unclear, and unauthorized people were calling the shots during its inauguration. They want the whole thing scrapped, ASAP.
Accusations of a Regional Agenda
Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere, the NEF spokesperson, didn’t mince words. He said the Tinubu administration has been pushing a regional and sectional agenda, which he believes is a direct threat to Nigeria’s democracy and unity.
Call for a Comprehensive Review
NEF isn’t just complaining; they’re demanding action. They want a thorough review of all federal appointments to make sure every one of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones gets a fair shake. They’re reminding the government that Nigeria’s federal system is built on constitutionalism and inclusiveness, and that the Federal Character Principle should be the guiding light for all appointments.
Constitutional Concerns
The elders are particularly worried about what they see as a blatant disregard for Section 14(3) of the 1999 Constitution. This section is all about ensuring that federal appointments reflect Nigeria’s diversity and prevent any single group from dominating. NEF believes the current composition of the Census Committee flies in the face of this principle.
Warning of Potential Instability
The NEF is not mincing words. They are warning that if things continue as they are, Nigeria’s unity is at risk. They’re reminding Tinubu that he won the 2023 election thanks to support from all over the country, especially the North, and that he shouldn’t alienate any region.
The Way Forward
So, what’s the solution? NEF wants a complete overhaul and redistribution of all federal appointments across all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to reflect Nigeria’s true diversity and comply with the constitution. It remains to be seen whether Tinubu will heed their call.
The Stakes Are High
With tensions already simmering in various parts of the country, this latest salvo from the Northern Elders could further destabilize the political landscape. Will Tinubu address these concerns, or will he double down on his current approach? Only time will tell.
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